FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Hillary Angel
Phone: (909) 390-1239
E-mail: hangel@wilkinguge.com

MEN URGED TO IDENTIFY MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS

SAN DIEGO, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 06/04/07 -- It may not be manly to ask for directions, but it takes strength and courage to recognize when you need emotional support. In observance of National Men's Health Week, June 11-17, 2007, the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) reminds men to maintain their health, productivity and quality of life by identifying the early signs of mental health conditions and understanding what treatment options are available.

The most common mental health conditions amongst males are depression, substance abuse and suicidal thoughts. Studies indicate men are less likely to seek therapy than women and often do not recognize, acknowledge or seek treatment for their illnesses. It is critical for men to detect the early signs that may eventually lead to poor physical, mental and/or sexual health. Early warning signs include:

• Excessive anger, irritation or violent behavior

• Sleep deprivation

• Inability to cope with daily activities

• Abuse of drugs or alcohol

• Loss of energy and fatigue

• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns

• Overwhelming feeling of sadness and grief

• Decreased sexual interest or activity

At an early age, males are often reminded by friends or family members that revealing emotions or showing empathy is a sign of weakness. Men tend to avoid therapy because they often do not know how to express their worries or thoughts.

A Marriage and Family Therapist can help with communication and assist with a variety of mental health conditions such as:

• Developing techniques to manage and decrease mental health symptoms

• Strengthening the ability to heal and recover

• Modifying behavioral patterns that promote the use of a substance

• Offering healthy problem0solving exercises

• Exploring healthy alternatives to deal with life’s everyday challenges

• Promoting open discussions of an addiction

Therapy is a cost-effective alternative treatment which offers short- and long-term interventions. Group therapy may be especially appealing to men because it is a safe environment. An interactive group session encourages interaction between group members and provides an opportunity for men to learn to better interact with others.

A mental health professional, such as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) is trained to assess, diagnose and treat individuals with conditions, such as stress, anxiety, depression or an addiction. To learn more about the services offered by Marriage and Family Therapists, visit California's online mental health resource, www.TherapistFinder.com.

About CAMFT
The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, with 27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional association, representing the interests of licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. CAMFT provides TherapistFinder.com as a resource to the public looking for Marriage and Family Therapists located in California. For more information about CAMFT, please call (858) 292-2638 or visit www.camft.org.