June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging open, honest conversations around men’s mental health. These conversations as it relates to men are often silenced due to outdated societal norms. While mental health impacts everyone, the challenges men face when it comes to seeking help are unique and urgent.
Why Men’s Mental Health Matters
Mental health struggles do not discriminate by gender, but cultural and societal expectations have conditioned men to suppress their emotions and “tough it out.” This silence can have devastating effects. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America:
- Nearly 1 in 10 men experience some form of anxiety or depression, but less than half seek treatment
- Over 6 million men suffer from depression every year, but it often goes undiagnosed
- More than 3 million men in the United States have panic disorder, agoraphobia or some other phobia
These numbers are not just statistics, they represent fathers, brothers, partners, and friends who suffer in silence.
The Unique Challenges Men Face
There are several challenges that impede men from seeking mental healthcare. These barriers have caused increasing concern, especially considering the increasing rates in suicide and substance abuse among men. Some of these challenges include:
- Cultural Stigma – From a young age, many boys are taught that emotions are a sign of weakness. Phrases like “man up” or “real men don’t cry” are prevalent in sports, homes and even workplaces. This reinforces the idea that vulnerability is something that should be ashamed of.
- Lack of Resources – While mental health resources are available, many are not designed specifically for men or acknowledge the pressures they face.
- Fear of Judgment – Many men fear being labeled as unfit or unstable, especially in environments where strength and control are considered the norm.
How We Can Support Men’s Mental Health
Supporting men’s mental health and well-being requires a collective shift, which includes individual and cultural changes. Here is how individuals, communities and workplaces can make a difference:
For Individuals
- Validate Emotions – talk openly about your feelings with the men in your life. Model vulnerability around them as a way to make them feel safe doing the same.
- Check In Regularly – Encourage open communication. Start conversations with more than a simple “How are you?” Try phrases like “I am available if you’d like to talk” or “What’s new with you since we last talked?”
- Encourage Professional Help – Suggest therapy or counseling in a non-judgmental way. If you have your own experiences, and are willing to share, that is a powerful way to end stigma.
For Communities
- Break Isolation – Social events and group activities focused around mental health can encourage men to come together and feel less alone. Even casual community meetings can be the first step in bringing these conversations to the forefront.
- Promoting Community Resources – Local community organizations and social groups often have resources available. These organizations can make sure that information is easily accessible. These resources can include support groups, helplines and counseling services.
- Creating Safe Spaces – Shared experiences can create bonds that foster openness. Encourage peer-led men’s support groups where individuals can share their mental health challenges without judgement.
For Workplaces
- Train Managers on How to Engage Men in Mental Health Discussions – Support managers by helping them understand the signs of burnout or stress, and how to structure conversations on the topic. This will help create a safe workplace.
- Adding Male Specific Content in Wellness Programs – Some examples could include fact sheets, decision maps and internal resources.
- Develop a Men’s Employee Resource Group – This can support personal and career development and create a safe space where employees can share their own experiences.
Men’s mental health is not just a phrase that we throw around in the month of June, it is a lifelong journey that deserves support all year long. Whether you are encouraging a friend or creating a better workplace, your actions matter. Every conversation that we have surrounding men’s mental health is a step towards breaking the stigma. For more information about men’s mental health and resources provided by the TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley, or contact us today.