Men’s Mental Health + Wellbeing

I actually started writing this in November aka Movember which is the month designated for Men’s Mental Health.

If you’re not familiar with Movember it’s an annual event involving the growing of moustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men's suicide.

There’s no denying there’s a stigma surrounding men’s mental health.
The idea that men are supposed to be stoic and hide their vulnerabilities and be tough and be ’the man’.

However the reality is that this societal pressure is killing men.
We need to a) challenge these stereotypes, b) create a safe space for men to discuss their emotions and seek help.

The statistics speak volumes.

In the UK, suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50.

In the US, the male suicide rate was around four times that of women in 2021.

Now poor health specifically poor mental health can affect people of any gender.
However in the case, it’s having rather serious consequences for men.

What can we do about it?

Well it’s worth mentioning that there is support out there if you need it.

But starting with being honest about your pain, bonding with friends and family and seeking professional help are also things that protect your mental health.
However, these are all things that require vulnerability and it can be exceptionally difficult to take that step.

Here’s a gentle reminder to actively check in on your mates, ask the hard questions and take a bit more of an interest in how their mental health is doing.

You never know it could save a life.

Support for men’s mental health:

UK
Safeline provides a dedicated UK male helpline offering a safe place to speak.
This can be used to provide immediate emotional support as well as advice to those suffering in silence. You can reach the helpline via text, phone or online chat.

Jame’s Place is a charity offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men at their centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle.

Andy’s Man Club is a harity offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online.

US

Face It Foundation works to give men the support they need to face depression, take control of their recovery and get their lives back.

Heads Up Guys have crisis lines that offer non-judgemental and confidential support via phone or text.

Anxiety and Depression Association of America provides resources and helps to raise awareness about men's mental health, encouraging men to take a step towards getting treatment.