Abstract
Help-seeking and Man Therapy: The impact of an online suicide intervention
Gilgoff, J.N., Wagner, F., Frey, J.J., & Osteen, P.J.
Introduction
Suicide is a leading cause of death for men in the United States. Men traditionally have been hesitant to seek help, based on masculine norms of stoicism and self-reliance, among other factors. Man Therapy (MT) is an online suicide prevention and mental health initiative that provides promise for facilitating male help-seeking.
Methods
This study draws on data from a randomized controlled trial which examined effects of MT on a sample of men residing in Michigan aged 25–64. The current study utilized logistic regression to test MT's effect on nonprofessional and professional help-seeking, controlling for marital status, education, and sexual orientation.
Results
A statistically significant positive association was found between MT and professional help-seeking (OR = 1.55, p = 0.049). A significant inverse association was also found with marital status, with partnered men less likely to seek professional help (OR = 0.53, p = 0.007). There was no significant association between MT and nonprofessional help-seeking.
Conclusion
Man Therapy demonstrates the promise of web-based suicide prevention efforts to reach men who typically do not engage in help-seeking, providing a gateway to vital professional support. As technology continues to emerge, further suicide research is needed on use of this modality with working-age men from diverse backgrounds.