According to experts, male victims from earthquake-related stress tend to ignore their symptoms by consuming alcohol and cigarettes. Doctors of the Menz Medical Centre say men normally try to cope with additional levels of stress until it is unbearable. Unfortunately, the stereotype that men are reluctant to look after their health is true.

Specialists alert for a dip in men's mental and physical health this year and ask men to be assertive about their health. Though drinking and smoking are common answers to stressful events, they should be avoided. While one month is needed to reestablish new routine, bad habits such as drinking and smoking can become an addiction, turning much more difficult to be left.

Drinking regularly can lead to weight-gain, liver damage and lack of motivation, besides increased chance of cardiovascular problems. The immunity system also becomes weaker.

Talking about the victims of the earthquake, Canterbury Men's Centre Manager Donald Pettitt says the male sense of duty makes them try to battle problems by holding their families together and not showing weakness. This stressful way of behavior impacts their mental health.

According to the specialist, the health system of New Zealand was more successful at targeting women's health problems than men's. To combat stress, he suggests sleeping, eating healthy and doing exercises.