Men’s Mental Health Guide

Research shows that men are four times more likely to die by suicide, and up to three times more likely to abuse drugs, than their female counterparts. Yet at the same time, men are far less likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition. It’s estimated that close to 20% of men struggle with a mental illness, yet only a fraction seek or receive help.

Although the conversation around mental health is widening, there is still a significant lag in our perception of mental health in men. Societal expectations and gender norms are largely responsible. Young men are often brought up to be strong, to hide their emotions, and to avoid being vulnerable. As a result, they tend to shy away from asking for help or acknowledging that they need help at all.

In honor of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, recognized each year in June, we’ve created this guide to reach young men who might be struggling. Too often, mental health issues in men are obscured, underdiagnosed, or simply overlooked. By knowing what signs and symptoms to look for, and breaking down the stigma of mental health, we can start getting these men the help they so need and deserve.

Men’s Mental Health: Overlooked and Underdiagnosed

Studies show that 40 percent of men have never spoken to anyone about their mental health, with most keeping quiet out of embarrassment, fear, or the negative stigma around it. The same percentage of men agree that it would take severe symptoms—specifically, thoughts of suicide or self-harm—to compel them to seek professional help. But why is this the case? Why are men being shut out when it comes to mental health support? There are a few, key drivers:

Societal Expectations:

It’s an unfortunate reality, but societal conditioning is a major contributor to men’s lack of mental health support. Traditional gender roles, and dated definitions of masculinity, have put an overwhelming pressure on men to be strong, to suppress their emotions, and to “tough things out” during difficult times. Historically, boys and young men have been encouraged to “man up”—but this backfires. It causes men to internalize their distress, bottle up their emotions, and suffer in silence.

Mental Health Stigma:

Mental health has long-been a delicate conversation, with many unknowns as well as many antiquated ideas of what mental illness looks like. There is still some level of judgment and negative sentiment around it. And this is especially true for men. Men often do not get help because they fear what others (family, peers, employers) might think. They fear that asking for help will be a sign of weakness, or make them a failure to their family and society. Men often cite feeling “too embarrassed” to seek treatment.

Lack of Awareness:

Because there tends to be less conversation around men’s mental health, there are many individuals who are simply not aware of the potential symptoms or vulnerability. Some men might not know that substance misuse, persistent irritability, or ongoing fatigue, for example, can also be signs of a mental health issue. Others might recognize that they’re struggling, but don’t know what resources are available to them (or how to go about finding them). This often puts a stop in the road, preventing some men from getting the treatment they need.

What are the Signs of Mental Health Problems in Men?

Men are most likely to seek mental health treatment at a time of crisis—a “rock bottom” or a breaking point. For example, the loss of a job, a mental breakdown, thoughts of suicide, or the ending of a relationship are common reasons for men’s help-seeking. By this point, though, their mental health issues have typically bubbled up, requiring more intensive intervention and support.

So, how do we reach struggling men sooner? For starters, it’s knowing the signs and symptoms of mental illness in men.

Every mental health disorder will display its own unique symptoms. However, here are some common things to look for if you think a loved one is struggling:

Persistent emotional distress
Severe mood swings
Feelings of hopelessness
Constant worry and fear
Increased irritability, anger, or aggression
Violent or risk-taking behaviors
Sudden changes in sleeping or eating habits
Decreased energy and activity levels
Withdrawal from friends and family, as well as once-loved activities
Physical ailments, such as ongoing headaches or digestive problems, without explicable cause
Difficulty concentrating or retaining information
Drops in performance, whether in school or in one’s career
Substance misuse or withdrawal from drugs/alcohol
Thoughts or acts of self-harm and suicide (note: this requires immediate help)

Shifting the Conversation Around Men’s Mental Health: How to Help

If someone you know – your son, your brother, your partner, a student or friend—is showing signs of a mental health problem, there are immediate ways in which you can help. These include:

Creating a safe space and having an open conversation about your concerns. Ask this person how they are doing, and be a listening ear. Use open-ended and non-threatening questions like, “How are you feeling?” and “Is there anything you want to talk about?” Move at their pace.
Normalize their experience and the conversation as a whole. Men are often reluctant to talk about mental health, and might feel very alone or self-conscious in the process. Reassure this person that they are not alone, and that their struggles are not a reflection of their strength. Validate their feelings and experiences, too, with phrases like, “That must be really difficult” and “I’m sorry you’re going through this.” Avoid telling them to “get over it” or “toughen up.”
Stay connected and continue conversations. This isn’t a one-time conversation or check-in. As a friend, family member, or mentor, it’s important to keep these talks going. Follow up with this person to see how they’re doing; invite them for a walk, a coffee, or to come over for a game. Just being there during their times of need can mean everything.
Encourage them to seek professional help. For men, seeking help can feel like a sign of weakness—but you have the power to shift this narrative. Show them that asking for help can be a marker of strength, to become the best version of himself. If they’re open to it, offer your assistance in researching therapists, making an appointment with a counselor, or finding a treatment provider that can meet his specific needs. For those who are more resistant to treatment, there are also online therapy options and anonymous call lines for support.

Turnbridge is also here for you. If you’re unsure who to call, but would like to speak to a mental health professional who specializes in the experiences of young men, we are always available to chat. Call 877-581-1793 to speak with our support staff.

Additionally, as we recognize Men’s Health Awareness Month, there are steps we can and should be taking to further reduce the stigma around this topic. Mental health is a very real concern, equally important as one’s physical health and well-being. Men deserve our support, without judgement or shame. We can help normalize their struggles simply by spreading awareness about the topic.

If you have a man in your life, specifically one that might be struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or another mental health disorder, here are some ways you can help at a larger-scale:

Promote open communication. Encourage the men in your life to talk about their feelings and emotions, creating a safe space for them to share their experiences.
Educate others about mental health. Raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders and the resources available for men’s mental health support.
Challenge societal expectations and norms. This starts with us. Deconstruct the traditional gender roles that too often create barriers for men needing mental health treatment.
Gently encourage professional help when needed. Encourage men to seek therapy, counseling, or medication when needed.
Emphasize the importance of self-care. Encourage men to prioritize their physical and mental well-being through healthy habits, such as good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Men’s Mental Health Treatment

Turnbridge is a specialized mental health treatment provider with dedicated programs for young men in need of support. If you or your loved one is struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, or another mental health issue, please do not hesitate to seek help. Too often, men suffer in silence—or, they are silenced and invalidated—contributing to high suicide rates among this demographic. It’s time to shift the narrative. We can make a difference. You can make a difference in the life of your loved one, today.

Call us at 877-581-1793 to learn about our programs, or visit us online here to learn more.