Breaking the Silence: Embracing Men’s Mental Health Month

officeadmin01
5 days ago
3 min read

Written by Joey Barnes

June marks Men’s Mental Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique mental health challenges that men face and breaking down the stigma that often prevents them from seeking help. Despite increased conversations around mental wellness, many men continue to suffer in silence due to outdated societal norms that equate vulnerability with weakness.

It’s time to challenge that narrative. Seeking help for mental health concerns is not a sign of failure—it's a powerful step toward healing, growth, and resilience.

Why Men’s Mental Health Matters

For generations, men have been taught to “man up,” to suppress their emotions, and to prioritize strength and stoicism. While these traits can be valuable in certain contexts, they often discourage men from expressing emotional pain or seeking support when they need it most.

This has serious consequences:

Men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women.
They are less likely to access mental health services, even when experiencing severe distress.
When they do experience conditions like depression or anxiety, they may not recognize the symptoms or feel comfortable discussing them.
40% of men have never spoken to anyone about their mental health
1 in 5 men develop alcohol dependency during their lives
16 million males are affected by mental health issues each year

Common Challenges Men Face

Mental health struggles don’t always look the same across genders. For men, challenges often show up in the following ways:

🔹 DepressionMen may not express sadness openly. Instead, depression may present as anger, irritability, or numbness. It can also manifest in risky behaviors or withdrawal from relationships.

🔹 Anxiety and StressChronic stress from work, finances, or family responsibilities can quietly build into anxiety disorders. Men might ignore these signs, thinking they should "push through."

🔹 Substance UseMen are more likely to cope with mental health issues through alcohol or drug use, which may worsen symptoms over time.

🔹 Anger and Emotional SuppressionWhen men aren’t taught how to talk about feelings, their emotions may come out as frustration or aggression.

🔹 Suicidal ThoughtsDue to underreporting and cultural stigma, men often don’t disclose suicidal thoughts until they’re in crisis. This highlights the urgent need for early support.

Why Seeking Help Is a Strength

There is nothing weak about asking for help—in fact, it's one of the bravest things a person can do. Therapy offers men a space to understand their emotions, reframe limiting beliefs, and learn tools for stress and relationship management.

You don’t have to wait until things are falling apart. Seeking support can be preventive, not just reactive. When men choose to speak up, they give others permission to do the same—fostering healthier families, workplaces, and communities. Being strong does not mean staying silent. Speaking up is the real strength.

Together, We Can Break the Stigma

Men’s Mental Health Month isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about changing lives. If you’re struggling, know that you're not alone, and that help is available. And if someone you love is showing signs of distress, reach out. One conversation could save a life.

Let’s normalize therapy, emotional expression, and self-care—for every man, every month.

Resources That Support Men

💡 HeadsUpGuyswww.headsupguys.orgA resource dedicated to supporting men in managing depression, building resilience, and preventing suicide.

💡 The Movember Foundation www.movember.com An organization raising awareness about men’s health issues—including mental health—through education, fundraising, and storytelling.

📞 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineCall or text 988 for 24/7, confidential mental health support in the U.S.

References

Mahalik, J. R., Burns, S. M., & Syzdek, M. (2007). Masculinity and perceived normative health behaviors as predictors of men's health behaviors. Social Science & Medicine, 64(11), 2201–2209. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2007.02.035

Seidler, Z. E., Dawes, A. J., Rice, S. M., Oliffe, J. L., & Dhillon, H. M. (2016). The role of masculinity in men's help-seeking for depression: A systematic review. Clinical Psychology Review, 49, 106–118. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2016.09.002