Bodybuilding includes not only a fit body but also a healthy mind. In today’s fast-paced world, always having positive emotional well-being is a struggle. People are dealing with different pressures, leading to mental distress. It is a sensitive topic to broach, especially for men. Society is used to a narrative that portrays men as strong providers. Rarely is their emotional or mental well-being drawn to any concern. But some fitness experts are breaking the mold. 

Recently Strongman and bodybuilder Mitchell Hooper shared wise words on social media for Men’s Mental Health Month. Let us dig deeper into this subject.

Mitchell Hooper shares the stigma around men’s mental health

The 2023 Winner of the Arnold Strongman Classic opened up about his issues with mental health. Despite having an exceptional year of winning competitions, Hooper acknowledges that his mental health has not been the best. He confessed to his Instagram family, “I have gone through some really, really difficult times in the past.”

He accepted the shame associated with this topic that prevents men from coming forward and sharing their feelings. Hopper said in the video: “It’s Men’s Mental Health Month, and I want to come on and talk a little about the stigma that I have experienced within men’s mental Health.”

According to the fitness expert, it is difficult for men to talk about mental health because of how others might respond. Friends, family, or colleagues might think that their actions have acted as triggers. “When you come out as a man and say I am struggling to the people closest to you, it’s really difficult for them not to take that on to themselves and think that they played a role in that difficulty,” added Hooper.

Read More: “That Gives Me a Purpose to Live Another Day” – Mikey Musumeci Detailed How He Battled His Mental Health Issues Drawing Motivation From Them

The 2023 World’s Strongest Man winner has a special message for his followers. He says, “Please just ask them if they are okay, and if they come to you with anything, please understand that it’s nothing to do with their surroundings. It is nothing to do with their accomplishments or what you have given to them. It’s a lot more to do with how they feel and things going on with them. 

While addressing all the men in his post, he added, “To all the men out there, there is another side to that all. You will go in and out, in and out. It is what it is. Deal with those dark times and look forward to the bright times”. In the emotional Instagram post, Hooper appreciates his loving family, finance, and amazing career. Despite being successful, he has had mental health issues. It has a lot to do with what a person is feeling inside.

Mental Health is an internal conflict according to the Strongman

Mitchell Hooper believes mental health issues are an internal fight that goes on. Dealing with those anxieties and fear is an ongoing process. June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, recognized by Mental Health America(MHA). As per MHA, there is a lot of under-reporting, downplaying of symptoms, and reluctance to talk.

Hooper has been a role model by speaking about his struggles. It has paved the path for others to come forward and seek guidance. Anyone struggling with mental health issues should talk to friends and family. Mental Health experts are also there to provide all kinds of support. Would you raise awareness about this issue? Let us know in the comments.

Watch This Story: Bodybuilder Derek Lunsford Talks About Managing Mental Health and Anxiety in His Latest Video