Men's Mental Health Information

  Every June, Men’s Mental Health Month shines a spotlight on the mental well-being of men and boys. It’s a time to break the silence, challenge stigma, and encourage men to seek help when they need it. Why Men’s Mental Health Matters Men are statistically less likely to seek help for mental health challenges. Suicide rates are higher in men compared to women, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and support. Mental health struggles—like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction—affect men of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles. Goals of Men’s Mental Health Month Raise Awareness: Educate communities about the unique challenges men face. Encourage Help-Seeking: Promote therapy, counselling, and support networks as signs of strength. Challenge Stigma: Break harmful stereotypes around masculinity and mental health. Support Well-Being: Promote healthy habits like exercise, mindfulness, social connection, and work-life balance. How You Can Particip...

Mental health struggles affect men of all ages, yet stigma, cultural expectations, and silence often prevent them from seeking help. Raising awareness is key to breaking barriers, encouraging support, and saving lives. Here’s how you can help: 1. Start Conversations Talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues. Share your own experiences or stories of men overcoming struggles—normalising the discussion. 2. Use Social Media Positively Share informative posts, articles, and resources. Support campaigns like #MensMentalHealth, #EndTheStigma, and #ItsOkayToTalk. Challenge jokes or memes that trivialise men’s mental health. 3. Support Men’s Mental Health Campaigns Participate in or donate to organisations focused on men’s mental health. Attend awareness events, webinars, or workshops. 4. Educate Yourself and Others Learn about common struggles: depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger issues, and addiction. Share fact-based information to...

Mental health struggles are common, but asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness. If you’re a man dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, there are safe spaces and professionals ready to support you. Hotlines & Crisis Support (24/7) Samaritans (UK & ROI): 116 123 – Free, confidential support National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (US): 988 – Confidential support for crisis or emotional distress Lifeline (Australia): 13 11 14 – Crisis support and suicide prevention Online Support & Resources Mind (UK): www.mind.org.uk – Guides on mental health issues and local services HeadsUpGuys: www.headsupguys.org – Mental health resources specifically for men Men’s Health Forum (UK): www.menshealthforum.org.uk – Practical advice, support groups, and campaigns Beyond Blue (Australia): www.beyondblue.org.au – Mental health info, counselling, and online forums Professional Help Therapists & Counsellors: Look for ...

Mental health struggles don’t discriminate—yet men often face unique barriers that make it harder for them to open up and seek help. Cultural expectations around masculinity can leave men feeling they must “stay strong” or “deal with it alone.” For women—partners, friends, sisters, mothers, and colleagues—recognising these struggles and raising awareness can make a powerful difference. Why Men Struggle in Silence Cultural pressure to hide vulnerability – Many men fear being judged as “weak” if they admit to mental health challenges. Limited outlets for emotions – Anger or withdrawal often mask deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Stigma around seeking help – Men are statistically less likely than women to access therapy or support services. Signs a Man Might Be Struggling Increased irritability or sudden anger Withdrawal from friends, family, or hobbies Overworking, compulsive behaviours, or risky habits Changes in sleep, appetite, or mo...

Gambling has been around for centuries, but today it’s more accessible—and more dangerous—than ever. With online casinos, sports betting apps, and even video games including gambling-like features, men are at increasing risk of developing gambling addiction. What may start as “just a bit of fun” can quickly spiral into a serious problem that affects finances, relationships, and mental health. How Gambling Addiction Works Gambling addiction—also known as “problem gambling” or “gambling disorder”—is a behavioural addiction where a person cannot resist the urge to gamble, despite harmful consequences. Wins create a powerful rush of dopamine in the brain, and losses often push men to chase their money back, fueling a destructive cycle. Modern Influences: Gambling and Social Media In recent years, gambling companies have found new ways to make betting look harmless and entertaining: Paid meme content – Some gambling companies now pay meme accounts on platforms like TikTok and Instag...

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While anyone can be affected, men often carry PTSD silently, sometimes years after the trauma, because of stigma, cultural expectations, or lack of awareness. PTSD is not a sign of weakness—it’s the mind and body’s response to overwhelming stress. What Causes PTSD? PTSD can develop after: Combat or military service Serious accidents or injuries Physical or sexual assault Natural disasters Childhood neglect or abuse Witnessing violence or death For men, trauma is often linked to military experiences, workplace accidents, or exposure to violence. However, personal trauma, such as relationship breakdowns or childhood adversity, can be just as impactful. Symptoms of PTSD in Men PTSD looks different for everyone, but common symptoms include: Re-experiencing the trauma – flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories Avoidance – ...

 Anger is a normal human emotion—it signals when something feels unfair, threatening, or out of control. But when anger becomes overwhelming, explosive, or constant, it can damage relationships, careers, and health. For many men, anger is one of the few emotions they feel “allowed” to express, which can mask deeper struggles such as stress, anxiety, or sadness. Learning healthy ways to manage anger is not about suppressing it, but about understanding and channelling it constructively. Why Men Struggle With Anger Cultural conditioning – Men are often taught to “be tough” and avoid showing fear, sadness, or vulnerability, so anger becomes the default outlet. Stress and pressure – Financial strain, work demands, or relationship conflict can build up until they spill over as irritability or rage. Unresolved trauma – Past experiences of neglect, abuse, or violence can fuel intense anger responses. Mental health factors – Conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or sub...

Everyone experiences worry or nervousness from time to time. But when anxiety becomes overwhelming, constant, and starts interfering with daily life, it may be an anxiety disorder. For men, anxiety often goes unnoticed or unspoken, because cultural expectations encourage them to “tough it out” rather than seek help. Yet anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in men—and they are highly treatable. What Are Anxiety Disorders? Anxiety disorders are more than just stress. They involve persistent, excessive fear or worry that doesn’t go away and can show up in the body as much as the mind. They can affect work performance, relationships, and physical health. Common Types of Anxiety Disorders in Men Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Constant, uncontrollable worry about everyday situations, often paired with restlessness and fatigue. Panic Disorder – Sudden episodes of intense fear, often with chest pain, dizziness, or a racing heart that can feel li...

When people think of eating disorders, they often picture them as issues that primarily affect women. But men struggle with eating disorders too—often silently, and sometimes without even realising it. In fact, millions of men worldwide live with conditions like binge eating disorder, bulimia, anorexia, or compulsive exercise patterns. Because of stigma and stereotypes, many men don’t seek help until the disorder has taken a serious toll on both body and mind. Why Eating Disorders Happen in Men Cultural pressures – Media and social norms often push men to chase a muscular, lean, or “ideal” body. Sports and performance – Athletes, especially in weight-class or appearance-focused sports (wrestling, bodybuilding, swimming), are at higher risk. Control and coping – Restricting food, overeating, or over-exercising can serve as a way to manage stress, anxiety, or feelings of inadequacy. Stigma – Because eating disorders are seen as “unmanly,” men may downplay symptoms or avo...

Relationships—whether romantic, family, or friendships—are central to men’s emotional well-being. When they are strained, the stress can weigh heavily and affect both mental and physical health. While every relationship has ups and downs, ongoing conflict, unmet expectations, or lack of communication can lead to significant stress that men often carry quietly. Why Relationship Stress Hits Men Hard Pressure to “fix things” – Men are often socialised to be problem-solvers, which can create frustration when conflicts feel unsolvable. Difficulty expressing emotions – Many men struggle to share feelings openly, leading to bottled-up resentment or distance. Fear of vulnerability – Opening up about insecurities can feel risky, especially if they worry about being judged. Identity tied to relationships – For some men, a sense of self-worth is strongly linked to their role as a partner, father, or provider. Common Sources of Relationship Stress Communication breakdowns –...

Loneliness is often described as the gap between the relationships we have and the connections we want. It’s not just about being physically alone—it’s the feeling of not being truly seen, understood, or supported by others. For men, loneliness can be especially difficult, as cultural expectations often discourage open conversations about emotions or struggles. Why Loneliness Affects Men Differently Cultural pressure to “be strong” – Many men are taught to hide vulnerability, which makes it harder to ask for help or reach out. Fewer close friendships – Research shows men are less likely than women to maintain deep, emotionally open friendships. Major life changes – Breakups, divorce, retirement, or moving away from family can leave men without a strong support system. Reliance on partners for connection – Men often depend heavily on romantic relationships for emotional support, so when these end, the sense of isolation can be intense. Signs of Loneliness in Men Lon...

Compulsive behaviours are repeated actions that a person feels driven to perform, often as a way to relieve anxiety, stress, or uncomfortable emotions. For men, these behaviours can sometimes go unnoticed or dismissed as "habits" until they begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, or overall well-being. What Are Compulsive Behaviours? Compulsive behaviours are not simply bad habits—they are actions that feel difficult, or even impossible, to resist, despite knowing they may cause harm or disruption. They can provide temporary relief, but the underlying tension usually returns, creating a cycle that can be hard to break. Common Compulsive Behaviours in Men Compulsive checking – constantly checking locks, work emails, or fitness trackers. Compulsive exercising – pushing the body beyond healthy limits, often tied to body image or self-worth. Compulsive gambling or spending – seeking a “rush” from risk-taking or purchases. Compulsive sexual behaviours ...