Üks jalgpalliklubi tegi video meeste vaimsest tervisest ja see läks ülipopulaarseks

The Norwich soccer club’s video, which attracted millions of views on its first day, was dedicated to World Mental Health Day. Its creators raised topical issues: the importance of sincerely showing your emotions and the need to be attentive to the feelings of those around you.

The heroes of the 147-second mini-movie are two soccer fans watching their favorite team play during the season. By the end of the video, the seat of one of the men is empty, and his friend hangs his friend’s scarf on the back of the chair.

The main purpose of the video is to emphasize the need to be interested in the feelings of others. This is how its creators described the meaning. However, not all viewers were able to decipher this idea without additional explanations. In social networks there was a discussion about this.

Immediately understand what the authors of the video wanted to tell about, it really was not so easy. In the short video, the soccer fan on the left all matches is in a depressed state and sad, the second – constantly smiling and actively cheering for his favorite team.

The end turns out to be unexpected. The viewers are shown that the life of the one who had been showing positive emotions all this time is tragically cut short… In the video, as in life, not everything is so simple. What is this video about and what can it teach us? Let’s watch the video together with psychologist Stanislav Sambursky. What meaning does he see here?

Äri- ja kliiniline psühholoog

“This video illustrates well the problem that many men face in modern society. And it consists in the fact that the stronger sex often hides their feelings and emotions and even in a critical situation can not ask for help. Boys, who were taught during their childhood that “only weaklings cry”, grow up to be people who are unable to share their feelings even with the closest people.

This happens for several reasons. First of all, it is imposed social stereotypes and norms. From childhood men are indoctrinated that they should be strong, confident, independent, responsible, protect and provide for their families. To complain, to feel fear, insecurity, sadness, resentment is considered shameful and unacceptable.

Society has formed the opinion that a man should be a leader, achieve success, cope with any difficulties.

Such a stereotype is not suitable for everyone. Not every man has the desire to show leadership qualities, to go for broke. Therefore, many begin to suppress their emotions – in order not to appear weak, insecure. Men hide feelings in order not to receive criticism in his address.

Personal experiences and past traumas can also affect the emotional state. If a man has experienced loss of loved ones, divorce, infidelity, failure, conflict and has not received support from others, this will freeze his skill to show emotions. As a result, the man will become more withdrawn, cynical, apathetic, depressed.

What are the dangers of unexpressed emotions?

Hiding feelings can be dangerous for men’s mental and physical health, as it can lead to the development of various disorders such as depression, anxiety, phobias, aggression, suicidality.

Statistics show that men are twice as likely as women to commit suicide. According to the World Health Organization, in 2019, there were 13.7 suicides per 100,000 men and 7.5 per 100,000 women.

One reason for this difference may be that men are less likely to seek psychological help when they experience depression, anxiety, loneliness, guilt, and other negative emotions. Moreover, men can rarely find the strength to talk and confess problems to even close friends for fear of losing their “real man” status.

Constantly suppressed emotions can have a negative impact on a man’s physical health, as they cause chronic stress. It, in turn, affects the work of various systems and organs.

One of the serious consequences of suppressed emotions can be myocardial infarction. It occurs when the blood supply to the heart is disrupted due to narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. Stress also contributes to high blood pressure, increased blood viscosity, blood clots, and disrupted heart rhythm.

How to take care of mental health for men?

Emotions are an important part of our lives. They help us understand ourselves and others, adapt to change, overcome difficulties, find meaning and purpose in life, create relationships, enjoyment and joy. Therefore, you should be attentive to your feelings.

Accept your emotions

Acknowledging your emotions is good for your mental health. There is no need to judge or shame yourself. Emotions are signals that speak to our needs, desires, values. They help us make decisions, act, react.

Express your feelings

You can express emotions in many ways, such as words, gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, letters, drawings, music, sports, hobbies, etc. The important thing is that it should be safe, respectful and healthy for yourself and others. Expressing emotions helps us release tension, stress, guilt. By expressing your worries, it is easier to get support and understanding from others.

Ask for help

Don’t hesitate to ask for support when things are hard. Even a trivial pat on the shoulder will be a lifesaver in a difficult moment. You can get help from close friends, family, mentors, psychologists, and support groups. Find people you can trust.

The authors of the Norwich soccer club video wanted to show that men should not be embarrassed or ashamed of their emotions. If a problem arises, it is worth sharing with someone who is close and can help. Recognizing, expressing and discussing worries and getting support when things are tough are useful skills. They can save many lives and improve men’s mental health.