In recent years, awareness about mental health has increased substantially, with more people opening up about their struggles and seeking help. Yet, for many men, mental health remains a silent challenge.
Despite the progress in de-stigmatising mental health conversations, men often feel pressure to keep emotions hidden, fearing judgment, weakness, or burdening others. Mental Health UK highlights the fact that men are less likely than women to seek mental health treatment.
The stigma around vulnerability has contributed to high rates of untreated mental health conditions, addiction, and even suicide. As well as this, 12.5% of men in England have a mental health disorder.
Waiting until crisis point is reached
Men are often unwilling to express or acknowledge that they are struggling with their mental health, even to doctors (Good and Mintz, 1990) and tend to only seek help when crisis point is reached (Seidler et al., 2016).
Instead, many will adopt negative coping styles including the “misuse of alcohol and drugs to numb distress; concealing and ignoring negative emotions; engaging in risky behaviours; or valuing self-reliance and autonomy over professional care (Bilsker, et al., 2018).
To help men talk about their mental health, we must foster an environment where men feel safe and encouraged to speak openly. Below are some actionable ways to help men talk about their mental health and break down the barriers of stigma and silence.
Break Down Harmful Stereotypes
One of the biggest barriers to men discussing mental health is the social pressure to fit into traditional, often harmful, ideals of masculinity. Society has long promoted the idea that men should be strong, stoic, and self-reliant. This stereotype discourages men from expressing vulnerability, pushing them to cope in silence.
To help men feel comfortable talking about their mental health, it’s essential to challenge these stereotypes. A man expressing his emotions should be viewed as a sign of strength, resilience, and self-awareness, rather than weakness.
Public figures, especially male athletes, actors, and leaders have been instrumental in breaking down these norms by sharing their own mental health struggles. Highlighting these role models can demonstrate to men that seeking help and sharing feelings is normal, healthy, and empowering.
Encourage Open Conversations in Safe Spaces
Creating safe, judgment-free spaces where men can talk about their feelings is crucial. This could be in the form of mental health support groups, sports teams, or even casual gatherings with friends.
While traditional therapy sessions are valuable, some men might feel more comfortable starting in settings that feel familiar and low-pressure.
For example, mental health groups designed for men – such as Men’s Sheds – offer a space to share experiences, discuss concerns, and support each other in a non-judgmental setting.
If formal groups feel intimidating, casual get-togethers, like a regular coffee meeting or a weekend hike with friends, can serve as great environments for open conversation. These settings offer opportunities to talk in a relaxed way, making it easier to share concerns without feeling put on the spot.
Use Simple and Regular Check-Ins
Sometimes, encouraging men to discuss mental health can start with something as simple as a check-in.
Asking, “How are you?” is common, but going a step further with questions like “How’s your week really been?” or “Is there anything on your mind?” can invite a more genuine response. Avoid pushing for detailed answers if they’re not ready; instead, show you’re open to listening.
Additionally, letting conversations around mental health be part of everyday discussions rather than a separate or serious event can make these talks feel more natural.
Friends, family members, and colleagues can help normalise mental health check-ins, creating a culture where mental wellness is discussed as commonly as physical health.
Normalise Therapy and Professional Support
Men are often less likely to seek therapy or counselling, in part because they might see it as a last resort or something only for people with “severe” issues. However, therapy is a beneficial tool for anyone looking to better understand themselves, manage stress, and build resilience.
To help normalise therapy, it can be helpful to talk openly about its benefits. Share stories of men who have experienced positive changes from therapy, emphasising that counselling is not just for crisis situations but also for personal growth and maintenance.
Additionally, workplaces and community organisations can play a role by offering mental health resources and connecting men with therapists, especially if they cater to men’s mental health needs specifically.
Educate on Mental Health and the Importance of Self-Care
One barrier to men talking about their mental health is a lack of awareness about what mental health challenges look like. Many men may not recognise symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress in themselves, mistaking them for personal weaknesses rather than treatable conditions.
Educational programs, community workshops, or online resources can help men better understand mental health, the signs of common conditions, and the benefits of self-care. There are also books like This Book Could Help – The Men’s Head Space Manual.
Knowledge is empowering, and by teaching men about mental health in relatable, practical terms, we can help them recognise their struggles and seek help without shame or hesitation.
Engage Allies in Mental Health Advocacy
Spouses, partners, friends, and family members play a huge role in supporting men’s mental health. Women, in particular, can act as allies by providing non-judgmental support and encouraging men to share their feelings.
Often, a partner or close friend can make a big difference just by offering a listening ear or suggesting professional help in a gentle, supportive way.
As well as this, workplaces can engage managers and HR teams to support men’s mental health in the workplace. With programs that provide mental health training and awareness for employees, workplaces can foster an environment where talking about mental health is normalised and resources are easily accessible.
Use Male-Friendly Language and Approaches
Some men may respond better to discussions on mental health if the language used feels relatable and non-intimidating.
Instead of focusing on “feelings” or “emotions,” use terms like “stress management,” “wellness,” or “resilience.” Reframing mental health as part of overall wellness or performance optimisation can make it more approachable.
Male-oriented mental health platforms like “HeadsUpGuys” use language and approaches that appeal specifically to men, offering resources to address mental health concerns in ways that feel accessible and non-judgmental.
And finally
Helping men talk about their mental health is a multifaceted effort that requires a shift in societal perceptions, education, and supportive relationships. By challenging harmful stereotypes, creating safe spaces, encouraging open conversations, and providing accessible resources, we can help men feel empowered to discuss their mental health openly.
When we foster a culture where vulnerability is valued and mental health is prioritised, we enable men to seek help, build resilience, and find the support they need. In doing so, we take significant steps toward a society that promotes wellness for everyone, regardless of gender.
Sources
Bilsker, D., Fogarty, A.S. and Wakefield, M.A., 2018. Critical issues in men’s mental health. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 63(9), pp.590-596.
Good GE, Mintz LB. Gender role conflict and depression in college men: evidence for compounded risk. J Couns Dev. 1990;69(1):17–21.
Seidler ZE, Dawes AJ, Rice SM, et al. The role of masculinity in men’s help-seeking for depression: a systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev. 2016;49:106–118.
