Trigger warning: This post deals with suicide.
The biggest killer of Australians between the ages of 15 and 44 is suicide.
More than seven Australians take their life everyday; three quarters of which are men.
Jono Nicholas, chief executive of online support service ReachOut, has referred to the epidemic as a “national tragedy”.
But why do the rates differ so drastically between men and women? Gus Worland, co-host of the Sydney Triple M Grill team, has a theory, backed by some very convincing research.
The issue lies with two words. Two words that are part of our everyday lexicon. An expression that we throw away mindlessly, rarely giving its meaning a second thought.
“Man up.”
Two words that encapsulate the toxicity of masculinity. When we tell someone to “man up” – we mean don’t admit defeat, be brave, be strong, reject empathy, take risks, be powerful and most all, never, ever cry. The demand, along with phrases like “harden up”, “suck it up” and “be a man”, are all a perfect recipe for depression, anxiety and violence.
Top Comments
On the contrary,I think being a man is embracing all of those things.
Empathy, care, love, family.
When I say "man up" to my husband, I say,, "come on, let it out, we are a team and I know you. Let's do this together."
Because being a real man IS accepting tat you have these issues.
I hate those words Man Up and I wouldn't tell my son or any other boy or man those toxic words. ReachOut please tell me you are deliberately including/targeting your campaign to Indigenous boys and men? Please. We cannot ignore the stats that Indigenous men have the highest rate of suicide in the world. We have seen suicide campaigns in regional areas and they focus on farmers which is much needed. Our universal campaigns also need to bring in the Indigenous perspective. All our men need our support and encouragement to share their feelings and ask for help. We owe it to them to have support services that are tailored to meet their needs and make them feel valued.
Well said Neesa :))
Thank you Kimbo.