Masculinity: how men with depression navigate stigma to create meaningful relationships in their communities.

Background: Depression is a leading cause of disability, and men with depression are particularly vulnerable to experiencing stigma on account of cultural expectations. This paper examines how men manage their illness, and its significance when rebuilding their identity. Objectives: (a) Identify men’s feelings associated with depression, stigma and masculinity within an Irish context. (b) Describe how men make meaning from, and are influenced by, these experiences. (c) Articulate how men with depression navigate stigma in order to participate more fully in their communities. Methods: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were completed with six male participants. Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was employed to analyse the results. Results: IPA yielded three themes: “traditional masculinity” outlines the occupational disruption, vulnerability, alcohol use, alienation and stigma; “safe place” illustrates the environment, confidence, and peer-support; and “non-traditional expression of masculinity” represents navigation of stigma through education, insight and courage, demonstrating occupational justice and engagement in new non-traditional masculine occupations. Conclusion: findings suggest there is stigma around depression for men, regardless of ethnicity, disability and personal loss. The findings establish that men struggle to verbally express themselves. Occupational therapists working with men, particularly in the area of mental health, should be mindful to give them time and space to express vulnerability. This may encourage alternative ways to navigate stigma, so that the men become resilient and gain the potential to belong.