STIGMA AND SILENCE: UNDERSTANDING MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH COMMUNICATION AND HELP-SEEKING IN KLANG VALLEY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55197/qjssh.v7si1.1184Keywords:
men, mental health, stigma, masculinity ideology, health communicationAbstract
In the realm of mental health discourse, considerable attention has traditionally been directed toward women’s well-being, resulting in a significant gap in understanding and addressing the unique challenges surrounding men’s mental health. This study aims to explore the factors contributing to the persistent stigma surrounding men's mental health in the Klang Valley, identify the communication barriers that discourage men from seeking help, and propose strategies to facilitate more supportive help-seeking behaviours. Employing a qualitative research design, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with ten male participants from the Klang Valley to capture rich, first-hand insights into their experiences and perceptions. Through thematic analysis, six major themes were identified: Toxic Masculinity Norms, Cognitive Barriers, Social Stigma Barriers, Structural and Financial Barriers, Narrative or Norms Shifts, and Supportive and Institutional Interventions. These themes reveal the complex interplay of cultural expectations, internalised stigma, and systemic barriers that shape men’s reluctance to seek mental health support. Framed through the lens of Muted Group Theory, the study highlights how men’s emotional expressions and help-seeking behaviours are frequently marginalised within dominant social narratives, often leaving them without the language, space, or societal permission to articulate their struggles. Participants in the study underscored the urgent need to reshape prevailing narratives by leveraging the influence of media, public figures, and grassroots community initiatives. They also stressed the importance of fostering greater support within families, workplaces, educational settings, and government institutions. This study contributes to public discourse by offering practical recommendations for media organisations, NGOs, and government agencies to design targeted mental health awareness strategies. It further underscores the need for continued research and sustained efforts to challenge harmful gender norms and promote help-seeking as a collective social responsibility.
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