June is Men’s Mental Health Month — a vital time to spotlight an often-overlooked crisis. Despite representing roughly half the population, men suffer disproportionately when it comes to mental health outcomes, especially suicide.
Alarming statistics
Globally, men die by suicide at rates three to four times higher than women, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). In some countries, the disparity is even more pronounced — for example, in the United States, men account for nearly 70% of all suicide deaths. The UK reports similar figures, with men making up around 75% of suicide fatalities. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men aged 15-49 in many parts of the world.
But the problem runs deeper than these tragic end results. Studies indicate men are less likely than women to be diagnosed with depression or anxiety, not because they experience these less, but because they are less likely to seek help or report symptoms. A 2023 study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that men are 30-50% less likely to access mental health services compared to women.
Why are men at higher risk?
The roots of this crisis are complex, but cultural expectations about masculinity play a significant role. From early childhood, boys often receive messages like “boys don’t cry,” “be tough,” and “handle it yourself.” Such teachings discourage emotional expression and vulnerability, encouraging men instead to bottle up feelings, avoid seeking help, or cope through risky behaviours like substance abuse.
These ingrained attitudes create what experts call a “mental health stigma,” which:
- Prevents men from recognising mental health struggles.
- Leads to delays in seeking professional help.
- Causes men to use harmful coping mechanisms.
The societal cost of silence
The cost of this silence is staggering. Beyond suicide, men suffer higher rates of substance use disorders and are more likely to engage in violence — both self-directed and towards others. Untreated mental illness also impacts relationships, work productivity, and overall quality of life.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 6 million men in the U.S. experience depression each year, yet fewer than half receive treatment. Globally, suicide claims over 700,000 lives annually, with men bearing the brunt.
Recognising warning signs
It’s crucial to recognise the signs that a man might be struggling with his mental health, which can sometimes be less obvious than typical symptoms:
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities once enjoyed
- Increased irritability, anger, or aggression
- Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
- Excessive alcohol or drug use
- Expressions of hopelessness or feeling trapped
- Risky or reckless behaviours
- Talking about death or suicide, even indirectly
If you notice these signs in someone, encourage them to seek help or offer support by listening without judgment.
The role of workplaces
Workplaces can play a powerful role in supporting men’s mental health by:
- Promoting open conversations about mental wellbeing
- Providing access to confidential counselling or Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
- Training managers to recognise and respond to mental health concerns
- Creating a culture where asking for help is normalised and supported
- Offering flexible work arrangements to reduce stress
Shifting the conversation
Men’s Mental Health Month is a call to action to change this narrative:
- Normalise emotional openness: Men should feel empowered to share feelings without fear of judgment or ridicule. Emotional expression is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Encourage early intervention: Mental health issues are treatable, and early support can prevent crises.
- Challenge toxic masculinity: Society must move beyond stereotypes that equate masculinity with stoicism or emotional suppression.
- Increase access to care: Healthcare systems need to be more welcoming and tailored to men’s unique mental health needs.
What can we all do?
- For men: Reach out. Talk to trusted friends, family, or professionals. Use resources like helplines (e.g., the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the US at 988, or Samaritans in the UK at 116 123).
- For loved ones: Listen actively and compassionately. Don’t dismiss men’s struggles or tell them to “man up.” Encourage professional help if needed.
- For communities: Create environments where men feel safe to discuss mental health — in workplaces, sports clubs, and social settings.
- For policymakers: Invest in men’s mental health programs and research to understand gender-specific barriers to care.
Real strength is vulnerability
The truth is, mental health doesn’t discriminate by gender — but how we treat it often does. Men don’t have to suffer in silence. Breaking the stigma saves lives.
As Men’s Mental Health Month reminds us: it’s okay for men to cry, to seek help, and to be open. Real strength lies in vulnerability, and together, society must stand behind every man to say —‘We’re here for you’.
If reading this article has caused any distress, please remember you are not alone. In Spain, you can call the free 24-hour helpline:
Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717
Or visit www.telefonodelaesperanza.org for support and resources.
For expats in Spain seeking English-language mental health support, contact:
International SOS Assistance: +34 91 375 90 00
Or visit www.internationalsos.com for guidance and mental health resources.
Help is always available. Please reach out.
