Many of us will know these Alpha males of the 'pull yourself together' brigade.
If they're fortunate they may go through life without personally experience mental illnesses in its various forms and degrees.
However, it can be just a short step from being Mr Macho Man to developing a mental illness.
It can happen without warning, and in it's more acute forms can result in a spiral into severe anxiety, depression and panic attacks.
If they're fortunate, they will recover or at least manage their condition, and this will likely change their attitudes and understanding of the problem, and so have more empathy for others with similar problems.
It can actually be a very positive experience, as it gives you an insight into mental illness you would not otherwise have.
From an ex Alpha male.