The mental health crisis among men in America has reached critical levels: one in 10 men experience depression or anxiety, yet less than half seek treatment. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, men account for about four times the number of completed suicides compared to women in the United States, while Center for Disease Control studies indicate men are reporting higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation than women. Despite this growing crisis, in 2021, only 40% of men received mental health services compared to 51.7% of women.
Jewish Family & Children’s Services of Southern Arizona (JFCS) continues its longstanding commitment to mental health through dedicated programs and services, recognizing this critical need for mental health support in the community. As part of its comprehensive approach, which includes gender-specific services, JFCS provides specialized therapeutic support addressing the unique challenges men face in seeking mental health care.
“At JFCS of Southern Arizona, we believe in healing the whole person,” explains Carlos Hernández, President & CEO of JFCS. “Our professional therapy services create a dedicated space for men to explore emotions and personal growth, carrying forward our tradition of supporting the mental health of our diverse community.”
Clinical Therapist Michael McDonald offers insight into why such specialized approaches matter: “As men in this society, we’re generally acculturated to go it alone and remain emotionally isolated or disconnected, even from ourselves. But it doesn’t have to be this way. In my own personal experience, therapy can help free us from that trap and let us begin a journey of healing, one capable of renewing ourselves, our relationships, and even our potential.”
“We understand that taking the first step toward therapy can be challenging for men,” explains Hernández. “Our approach creates an environment where men feel comfortable exploring their mental health needs while recognizing the distinct challenges they face in accessing and engaging with mental health services.”
For more information about JFCS’s counseling services, visit jfcstucson.org or call 520-795-0300 x2002.
