The Importance of Men’s Mental Health Awareness

Men’s mental health is a critical issue in today’s culture. Centuries of societal expectations pressure men to display stoic strength and resilience, fostering a culture of resistance and disdain for mental health treatment. 

Although this mindset is slowly being unraveled, it still persists. This often pushes men to internalize their pain and avoid seeking help. According to the World Health Organization, about 800,000 people die by suicide every year [16]. Notably, (across Canada, the US, and the UK) 75% of these suicidal deaths were men. Long-term studies reveal that over 90% of people who die by suicide struggle with mental health and/or substance use disorders [17].

The consequences of untreated men’s mental health issues are devastating. Breaking the stigma and fostering awareness is essential to addressing these challenges and saving lives.

Why Men’s Mental Health Is Important

Throughout history, men have faced societal expectations to embody strength and resilience. This drive to be perceived as formidable can be traced back centuries to tribal leaders, conquerors, kings, and other figures of power who needed to project confidence for the survival and success of their people. However, this mindset of unshakable strength has also left a legacy of brokenness, discontent, war, and hardship.

In the 21st century, the societal impact on men remains troubling. The ideals of personal strength have been lifted to an unattainable standard, leaving men forced to conceal any pain, fear, or emotional distress. Sadly, the ongoing stigma of mental health issues, particularly for men, continues, with young boys being taught to “suck it up” and “be men.” While there is a time for courage and resilience, there must also be space for humility. Acknowledging when we are struggling and seeking support is an act of bravery that paves the way for healing. Unfortunately, humility and the willingness to surrender to vulnerability are often undervalued in today’s society.

These issues press down upon the men in our culture and produce devastating outcomes. Poor mental health among men leads to strained relationships, absent father figures and role models, broken marriages, and a rise in substance abuse and suicide rates.

June Is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month

In 1994, Men’s Health Month was established by Senator Bob Dole. The new bill aimed to promote awareness about the importance of early detection and effective treatment for men’s health conditions. The color blue was chosen to represent this month, symbolizing strength and unity. 

Over 30 years later, the month of June still stands as a “reset” button to remind and encourage men that their health problems are important, that their feelings carry weight, and their active participation in their own health is essential. With the rise of mental health awareness, the movement continues to expand its understanding of issues beyond physical health, addressing unhelpful stigma. The movement seeks to remind our male citizens that masculinity and the desire to protect and serve is admirable, but not at the expense of neglecting their own serious personal needs.

Many influential celebrity figures have joined forces to promote men’s mental health awareness during June. Their powerful messages emphasize the importance of opening up and seeking support. Here are a few notable Mental Health Awareness Month quotes:

• Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: “It took me a long time to realize it, but the key is to not be afraid to open up. Especially us dudes—we have a tendency to keep it in. You’re not alone.” – Twitter (X)
• Michael Phelps: “It was a long, long road, and I just never wanted to deal with it. For me, that sent me down a spiral staircase real quick, and I found myself in a spot where I didn’t want to be alive anymore.” – Today [5].
• Kevin Love: “No matter what our circumstances, we’re all carrying around things that hurt — and they can hurt us if we keep them buried inside. Not talking about our inner lives robs us of really getting to know ourselves and of the chance to reach out to others in need.” – The Players’ Tribune [6].

These words serve as a reminder that even those who appear strong and successful are not immune to mental health struggles, and opening up is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The Difference in Men vs. Women’s Mental Health Symptoms

While mental health disorders, conditions, and struggles are not necessarily more or less prevalent in women than in men, men are far more likely to delay seeking help. Instead, they often resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcoholism, substance abuse, social isolation, and, in devastating cases, suicide. “Men are nearly three times more likely than women to become alcohol dependent, with 8.7% of men meeting criteria for alcohol dependency compared to 3.3% of women”[3]. Additionally, men are significantly less likely to utilize psychological therapies than women, as only 36% of referrals are men [3]. 

Stereotypically, men tend to take bigger risks and assume that they can withstand the dangers associated. This may explain why men are more likely than women to use nearly all types of illicit drugs, and their use often leads to higher rates of emergency room visits and overdose deaths. For most age groups, men show higher rates of substance use and dependency compared to women [7]. 

These patterns of behavior present challenges for men facing mental health struggles, as unhealthy and risky coping mechanisms can lead to vicious cycles of dependency,  a decline in mental health, and higher rates of preventable deaths. Men’s reluctance to seek support continues to aggravate this crisis, which is why further education and awareness are urgently needed to drive targeted interventions and prevent unnecessary loss of life and overall harm. 

Men’s Mental Health Awareness: Factors Contributing to Mental Health Disorders in Men

Although there are no specific criteria that can predict the onset of mental health issues, there are a variety of factors that increase your susceptibility to developing one or more conditions. 

Men’s Mental Health Risk Factors include:

• Employment and financial issues: Men tend to self-identify with their careers, making the loss of a job or dissatisfaction with their career or salary more weighty [10].
• Family issues and Divorce: Both genders are vulnerable to these difficult circumstances. That said, some studies showed that men were twice as likely (than women) to report depressive feelings within 2 years of their divorce or separation [11].
• Difficult Childhood Experiences: While sexual abuse is more common among girls, physical abuse is more common in boys [18]. Additionally, boys do not tend to display symptoms of abuse as traditionally as girls do, making the assessment and intervention process more challenging. 
• Life Transitions: While becoming a parent can be an exciting and joyful experience, the transition and added responsibilities can also bring anxiety, stress, and depression. Changes in routine, reduced socialization, and disrupted sleep schedules can be challenging for some men, especially if underlying mental health conditions are continuously ignored.

These are just a handful of life circumstances that may affect men’s mental health throughout their life. However, there are also numerous at-risk populations and specific demographics that may be more vulnerable to mental health issues. 

Which Men Are More at Risk for Mental Health Disorders?

Men, in general, are considered to be a more at-risk population for underdiagnosed mental health conditions, as they frequently do not align with traditional diagnostic standards or seek evaluation as often. This calls into question the validity of our standards—as half the population is male, we ought to have our mental health service honed to include these unique variations. 

Male-specific at-risk groups include:

• Men with a family history of mental illness or substance abuse.
• Male Veterans and first responders, particularly those exposed to trauma.
• Men who experience major life changes, such as divorce, job loss, or the death of a loved one.
• Men with adverse childhood experiences, including abuse, foster care, or food insecurity.
• LGBTQ+ men often face heightened social pressures and stigma.

By tailoring mental health resources and interventions to these at-risk populations, we can better support men and help prevent the long-term consequences of untreated mental health struggles.

Common Mental Health Struggles in Men

Men, just like all humans, experience a wide range of mental health challenges. However, some of these challenges are influenced by societal expectations, gender norms, and adverse life circumstances. Acknowledging these struggles and how they manifest differently in men is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. 

Depression and Men’s Mental Health Awareness

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses for both men and women, typically marked by a low mood or loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. However, research shows that depression in men often manifests differently, with symptoms like anger, aggression, or irritability serving as key indicators.

The CDC reports that 5.5% of young adult men experience significant depression, compared to 10% of women in the same age group [8]. Despite this, men are still four times more likely to die by suicide.  

This difference raises important questions about how accurately depression is diagnosed in men. These statistics are likely skewed by the lack of diagnosis due to men’s differing symptoms—such as irritability, destructive behavior, and risk-taking—which do not align with the typical indicators like sadness or withdrawal. 

Men are also more likely to complete suicide than women, largely because they tend to use more lethal and aggressive methods, reflecting the symptoms that are commonly seen in depression for men. This shows just how important it is to recognize the unique ways men may experience mental health struggles. It also calls into question the methods used to diagnose depression effectively. For the sake of our men and society, we need better awareness, diagnostic processes, and tailored support to prevent heartbreaking outcomes.

Anxiety Disorders and Men’s Mental Health

Anxiety is often a suppressed emotion, as some may feel that expressing their worries or fears could burden others. Men, in particular, may ignore signs of an anxiety disorder in an effort to protect their family or loved ones. However, suppressing these emotions can intensify symptoms and worsen overall mental health.

One in five men will face anxiety at some point in their lives, but with the right support, they can develop practical coping strategies and foster healthier communication within their relationships.

Schizophrenia and Men’s Mental Health Awareness

Schizophrenia is characterized by these traits: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and diminished emotional expression. Recent research suggests that the onset and incidences of schizophrenia are higher in men. Women tend to present later and less frequently with a higher degree of premorbid emotional and social functioning [9]. Additionally, dual diagnosis of substance abuse is more common in men with schizophrenia, and women tend to respond better to treatment with long-term remission and fewer relapses. 

PTSD and Men vs. Women’s Mental Health

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a condition that develops after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms may include intrusive and distressing memories (flashbacks), recurring nightmares, and dissociative responses. It is particularly important to explore how PTSD affects men, especially veterans and first responders, who may experience intense reactions to triggers resembling the traumatic event.

While PSTD is statistically more common in women than men, men face unique risk factors, mainly due to roles in more high-stress professions. The veteran population, which is about 90% male, is especially vulnerable, as veterans are frequently exposed to traumatic events. Approximately 7% of male veterans will develop PTSD during or after their service. This highlights the need for targeted mental health support and awareness to address the specific challenges faced by men dealing with PTSD.

Dual Diagnosis and Men’s Mental Health Awareness

Dual diagnosis refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the same individual. It is also known as co-occurring disorder or co-morbidity. 

Research shows that 37% of alcohol abusers and 53% of drug abusers also have at least one serious mental illness [12]. Notably, men are more susceptible than women to co-occurring disorders [13]. While it’s often unclear whether one condition precedes the other, the connection between mental health and substance use disorders is undeniable. Proper treatment must address both conditions simultaneously, as they often negatively impact each other, hindering full recovery. 

Fighting the Male Mental Health Stigma and Seeking Treatment 

Stigmas, including those surrounding male mental health, are often rooted in ignorance, societal bias, and a reluctance to challenge the status quo. These harmful perceptions can discourage men from seeking help, reinforcing the cycle of silence and untreated mental health conditions. 

However, change is possible. Over the last 30 years since Men’s Health Month was established, mental health awareness has grown, and the conversation has shifted. Progress has been made, but stigmas still linger, affecting not only men but society as a whole. Here are a few ways you and your community can combat the stigma of Men’s mental health:

1. Continued Education: Raise awareness about mental health through campaigns, schools, and workplaces, emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing symptoms early.
2. Promote Support Systems: Encourage access to mental health professionals, counselors, and treatment centers, ensuring men feel supported and guided toward recovery.
3. Normalize Open Conversations: Create safe spaces at home, work, and within your personal relationships—where men feel comfortable expressing emotions without judgment or stigma.
4. Challenge Gender Norms: Address societal pressures equating masculinity with silence and stoicism and promote the teaching of emotional communication, particularly to young boys. 
5. Highlight Male Mental Health Advocates: Share stories of male role models who have spoken openly about their mental health to inspire others and break down stigma.

Without these key elements, men’s mental health can suffer, as many will not seek treatment. Mental health is generally a progressive disease that gets worse without intervention. It is pivotal for our society and the well-being of the men in our lives to prioritize their health and find healing. Let’s discuss the available treatment men can pursue for comprehensive care. 

Psychotherapy for Men’s Mental Health 

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has an average success rate of 73%, according to a 2018 study where professionals self-reported their experiences treating a variety of mental health issues. Talk therapies may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): this method of counseling helps the patient identify negative thought patterns and redirect these habitually harmful ways of thinking. CBT has a high success rate for people with anxiety, with 48% of individuals achieving symptom remission [13].
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focusing on accepting uncontrollable circumstances and managing emotional responses with appropriate coping skills.
• Teletherapy: Teletherapy is an online version of therapy proven to be just as effective as in-person sessions [14]. It utilizes similar methods of symptom management, skill-building, and reframing thought patterns. This modern approach opens the door for those who feel intimidated or stigmatized by visiting a therapist, allowing them to access mental health services from the comfort of their own home. 

Other effective therapies may include: 

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Many therapists prescribe antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications alongside talk therapy to complement talk therapy efforts, offering relief from severe symptoms and creating a balanced foundation for healing.
• Residential Treatment: In more severe cases, residential treatment provides an immersive environment for focused personal development. These programs offer a safe, distraction-free space for individuals to heal while receiving 24/7 clinical support. 

Lifestyle Changes and Men’s Mental Health Awareness

Holistic Therapies and Lifestyle Changes 

Adding holistic practices in combination with other traditional therapies can improve overall well-being by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Common practices include:

• Morning or Daily Routines: Simple habits like making the bed, having a cup of tea while reading, or avoiding your phone first thing in the morning, can set you up for less stress and anxiety during the day. 
• Exercise: Regular physical activity is scientifically proven to boost mood and improve mental health alongside physical health.  
• Balanced Diet: Intentional and nutritious eating supports mood regulation and physical well-being.
• Yoga and Meditation: These practices can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote emotional harmony.
• Art and Music Therapy: Creative outlets allow for deeper expression of feelings and relief from rumination or anxious thought patterns. 
• Community Support: Meaningful connections with others who have similar experiences can be pivotal for growth, healing, and reducing feelings of isolation.

These holistic therapies and lifestyle adjustments can improve mental health and reduce the negative impact of untreated mental illness. The consequences of unaddressed mental illness, particularly for men, are devasting. We’ll cover these statistical hardships below. 

Men’s Mental Health Awareness Can Reduce Suicide Rates 

In 2021 suicide was the eleventh leading cause of death in the United States, claiming over 48,100 lives [15]. Men are also 3-4 times more likely to die by suicide than women. Suicide is deeply linked with undiagnosed and untreated mental health disorders, which highlights the desperate need we have to serve and bring about change in our society when it comes to men’s mental health. Raising awareness through initiatives like Men’s Mental Health Month can encourage early intervention and offer access to support for those at risk, ultimately saving lives and improving overall quality of life. 

FAQs Section

What month is men’s mental health awareness? 

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month (which includes mental health) established in 1994 by Senator Bob Dole. Its goal is to promote awareness, encourage education on health, and motivate men to access resources and seek treatment.

What are the 5 most common mental health disorders in men?

The five most common mental health disorders in men are depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders (SUDs). While four of these are common across all genders, schizophrenia stands out as it occurs earlier and more frequently in men compared to women. 

Additionally, ADHD is arguably in the top 5 if we exclude SUDs, which are frequently dual-diagnosed with other mental health disorders. ADHD is more often diagnosed in men and appears to be more prevalent, further highlighting the unique mental health challenges men face.

Why is men’s mental health so overlooked?

Men’s mental health is often overlooked for various reasons, with one major factor being that men tend to push their mental and physical health aside. Nearly 1 in 10 men experience depression or anxiety, yet less than half seek treatment. This reluctance is often due to stigmas around masculinity, fear of showing weakness, and doubts about the effectiveness of treatment.

How to bring awareness to men’s mental health?

Awareness of men’s mental health can be increased through open conversations, community support, and targeted campaigns with influential (celebrity) support. We have seen a significant uptick in these efforts, especially during June, Men’s Health Awareness Month. This month emphasizes breaking stigmas around masculinity by sharing testimonials, resources, education on mental health issues, and the effectiveness of treatment. All of this is done to encourage men to seek help. 

What color represents men’s mental health?

Blue is most commonly used for men’s health and mental health awareness as it is meant to represent calmness and unity. 

How to help a man with mental health issues?

If your husband, brother, son, father, or friend is struggling with mental health issues, the first step is to actively listen without judgment. Let them know they are not alone and that their feelings are valid. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to assist with finding resources or attending appointments if needed. Show consistent support through patience and understanding. If it’s appropriate to do so, connect your loved one to another male friend or family member who would champion their mental health recovery. 

What is the ribbon for men’s health?

Similar to the pink ribbon, which represents breast cancer awareness, the blue and sometimes the green ribbon are used as mental health awareness colors.

What color ribbon is mental health awareness?

The mental health ribbon (not specific to men or women) is green and used to represent a mental health symbol of awareness and support. 

Find the Help You Need at Connections! 

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health disorders, Connections Mental Health offers inclusive and evidence-based inpatient mental health treatment for men and women. 

With a 6-person max in our residential facilities, our knowledgeable clinical staff is able to provide the most attentive and personalized care to all who join our program. Founded by individuals who have come through their own mental health journeys—we are deeply committed to helping people overcome their mental health battles and live joyful, balanced lives.  

Our evidence-based treatment programs include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Medication management
• Family-like environment
• 24/7 clinical support & supervision
• Personalized treatment plans 
• & More

Call our care team today to get insurance-covered treatment for mental health disorders at 844-759-0999.

Sources 

[1] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Centers%20for,lives%20of%20over%2048%2C100%20people.

[2]https://medicine.iu.edu/blogs/spirit-of-medicine/mens-health-month

[3]https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/key-data-mental-health

[4] https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-statistics-asd

[5] https://www.today.com/health/michael-phelps-struggle-depression-mental-health-issues-t119969

[6] https://www.theplayerstribune.com/articles/kevin-love-everyone-is-going-through-something