Bollywood actress Malaika Arora is currently grieving the recent death of her father, Anil Arora. According to reports, Anil Arora ended his life by jumping from the terrace of his apartment in Bandra, Mumbai on Wednesday. The tragic incident, which occurred around 9 a.m., had deeply shocked the Arora family and the Bollywood community. 

Investigations Underway 

As of now, the exact reason behind Anil Arora’s drastic decision remains unclear. Authorities are still investing the details of his death. No suicide note was discovered from the scene. It is being reported that he was feeling ‘sick and tired’ before the incident.

Impact on Malaika Arora and Family

Malaika Arora was not at home when her father passed away. After the tragic event, her family along with her ex-husband Arbaaz Khan, have gathered to provide support and condolences. Malaika and her younger sister, Amrita Arora was brought up by their mother, Joyce Polycarp, after their parents separated when Malaika was 11 and Amrita was 6. 

The Stigma Surrounding Men’s Mental Health 

The tragic loss of Anil Arora highlights the critical issue of mental health, particularly among men. Many men struggle with expressing their emotions due to societal expectations like ‘Men don’t cry’, ‘Men are brave’ and ‘You Are a man, you have to suffer silently’, discouraging them for showing vulnerability. This stigma often prevents men from seeking help, leading to severe outcomes like self-harm and suicide. 

Statistics on Men’s Mental Health and Suicide 

Statistics reveal that men are disproportionately affected by mental health problems and suicide. In India, the suicide rate among men was 2.6 times higher than among women in 2023. Specifically, 1,18,979 men died by suicide compared to 45,026 women. 

Even in countries such as Canada, the US and the UK around 75 percent of deaths by suicide are men in 2021. This statistic underscores the importance of addressing mental health issues openly and without shame. 

Tips for Men to Address Their Mental Health 

Talk About Your Feelings 

Men often find it hard to acknowledge their mental health struggles or thoughts of suicide. Experts suggest that sharing these feelings with someone they thrust is very important. Even if there are no quick fixes, talking about emotions can be a key first step in getting help. 

Recognize Red Flags 

Men may not always recognize when they are struggling, as mental health issues can show up in different forms, not just sadness. Important signs to look for include: 

• Changes in sleep patterns 

• Difficulty concentrating 

• Restlessness 

• Fluctuating energy levels 

• Changes in appetite 

Be Persistent 

To help a man open up about his feelings, it is important to be persistent. Men usually keep their emotions to themselves, so keeping communication open in various situations—like playing sports, enjoying a drink, or cooking together—can help. 

Prioritize Friendships 

Building and maintaining strong relationships is crucial for mental well-being. Men often prioritize work over personal connections, but investing time in friendships and family can significantly improve mental health. Research indicates that having trustworthy friends can increase happiness and reduce depression. 

Avoid Isolation 

Several high-profile suicides, like that of actor Robin Williams in 2014, happened when people were by themselves. Studies indicate that social isolation can lead to thoughts of suicide. Being around supportive people can provide comfort and reduce feelings of loneliness. 

Seeking Help 

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, it is important to reach out for professional help. There are many resources and support systems available to assist individuals in crisis and provide the necessary help to navigate through tough times. 

The death of Anil Arora highlights the urgent need to talk about mental health, particularly for men. By reducing stigma and promoting open discussions, we can help prevent such tragedies and provide support to those in need.