Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it often remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, especially when it comes to men's mental health.

The recent suicide of 34-year-old Bengaluru techie, Atul Subhash, has brought this issue into sharp focus. His tragic death not only highlights the profound mental health problems many men face but also underscores the urgent need for greater mental health awareness and support systems.

This blog delves into Atul Subhash's case and explores the broader implications for men’s mental health in India.

The tragic case of Atul Subhash

Who was Atul Subhash?

Atul Subhash was a 34-year-old senior executive at a prominent tech firm in Bengaluru.

On December 9th, Atul tragically took his own life in his Bengaluru home. He left behind a heartbreaking 24-page suicide note and an 81-minute video, detailing his immense pain.

The note, with the phrase "Justice is due" written on every page, revealed Atul's deep frustration with the ongoing harassment he endured. He blamed his estranged wife, Nikita Singhania, her family, and what he perceived as a biased judicial system for his suffering.

These suicidal thoughts stemmed from marital conflict, harassment, extortion, and perceived abuse of power. All of these concerns deeply affected his mental health.

The aftermath and public reaction

Atul's suicide has sparked widespread media coverage and public outcry. Friends, family, and colleagues mourn his loss while also questioning the systemic issues that contributed to his mental health problems. The case has ignited discussions about the pressures men face and the lack of adequate support systems to help them cope with such challenges.

Mental health struggles in Subhash’s case

Men are often socially conditioned to suppress their emotions and not show vulnerability. Cultural norms can make it difficult for men to talk about their feelings, seek help for mental health issues, or show signs of emotional distress. This "stoic" mindset can lead to unresolved mental health issues, which may eventually manifest in dangerous ways, including suicidal thoughts or actions.

Emotional distress from marital discord

Marriage problems can deeply impact a person's mental health. They can lead to feelings of being alone, hopeless, and sad. For Atul, conflicts with his wife created constant emotional pain. This worsened depression in men and made it hard for him to find support or comfort

Legal battles and judicial frustration

Long legal fights can drain a person mentally and emotionally. Atul felt the judicial system was unfair, which added to his stress. This shows how system-wide issues can worsen mental health problems. When people feel they cannot get justice, suicidal thoughts can become more likely.

Persistent harassment and its impact

Continuous harassment can severely damage a person's mental health. Whether from a spouse, in-laws, or other sources, such treatment can be devastating. For Atul, relentless harassment deepened his depression in men. It became increasingly difficult for him to protect his mental well-being or seek help.

Issue of men’s mental mealth in India

Societal expectations and masculinity

Traditional gender roles impose significant pressures on men to conform to ideals of strength and stoicism. These societal expectations often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help, contributing to the signs of male depression and making it harder to address mental health problems effectively.

Men, especially in traditional family structures, often feel immense pressure to be the primary breadwinner and protector. This can contribute to stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, particularly if they face job losses, financial setbacks, or relationship issues. These pressures, when combined with a lack of emotional support, can contribute to a sense of hopelessness.

Lack of accessible mental health resources

Despite growing mental health awareness, many men in India still lack access to necessary resources. Barriers such as stigma, lack of awareness, and financial constraints prevent men from seeking the help they need. This gap is evident in cases like Subhash’s, where the absence of adequate support systems can lead to tragic outcomes.

Statistical insights

Statistics reveal that depression in men is a significant concern in India. A 2022 study found that Indian men experience mental health problems as they account for 25% of all suicides worldwide, making India the country with the greatest suicide rate.

According to studies, warning signs of poor mental health in men specifically can be attributed to changes with respect to mood, sleep, appetite, anger. emotional regulation and withdrawal symptoms.

Solutions to men’s mental health problems

Promoting open conversations

Encouraging men to talk openly about their mental health is crucial in breaking down the stigma. Creating safe spaces for men to share their struggles without fear of judgment can help address mental health problems early on and prevent suicidal thoughts.

Enhancing mental health services

Improving access to mental health resources tailored to men’s needs is essential. This includes increasing the availability of counseling services, support groups, and crisis intervention programs that specifically address the unique challenges men face.

Reframing negativity with mindfulness

Mindfulness practices have proven effective in helping individuals reframe negative thought patterns, thereby improving mental health awareness and reducing symptoms of depression in men. Mindfulness encourages individuals to stay present, acknowledge their emotions without judgment, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

The Level SuperMind app is designed to address common mental health problems faced by men. It offers guided mindfulness exercises, meditation sessions, and techniques to manage stress and anxiety. By integrating these practices into daily routines, men can better manage their emotional distress and build resilience against suicidal thoughts.

Level SuperMind is not just an app; it’s a companion that understands the unique challenges men face. It provides personalized mindfulness strategies that help users reframe negative thoughts, enhance emotional regulation, and promote overall well-being.

This approach not only addresses immediate mental health problems but also fosters long-term mental resilience and mental health awareness.

Final thoughts

The tragic suicide of Atul Subhash is a stark reminder of the pressing need to address men’s mental health in India. It highlights the critical importance of mental health and the devastating consequences when individuals are unable to find the support they need. By promoting mental health awareness, recognizing the signs of male depression, and enhancing support systems, we can work towards preventing such tragedies in the future. Let us honor Atul's memory by taking concrete steps to support men’s mental health and create a more compassionate and understanding society.