Understanding these barriers is the first step toward breaking the silence and supporting men’s wellbeing.
Why men struggle with their mental health
1. Societal expectations
From a young age, many men hear phrases like “man up” or “boys don’t cry.” These messages can make it seem like expressing emotion is a sign of weakness, leading men to hide feelings of sadness, anxiety or stress.
2. Stigma and shame
Even today, there’s stigma around men’s mental health. Some worry about being judged or seen as “weak” or “unreliable,” which can stop them from opening up or seeking professional help.
3. Different ways of showing distress
Men may express emotional pain differently – through anger, irritability or withdrawal rather than crying or talking. This can make problems harder to recognise, both for others and for the men themselves.
4. Barriers to seeking help
Men are statistically less likely to visit a GP or counsellor about mental health. Busy schedules, financial worries and fear of vulnerability can all get in the way.
5. Life pressures
Work stress, family responsibilities, and money worries can pile up. Without good coping tools, this can lead to burnout, depression, anxiety or reliance on alcohol or substances.
Signs a man might be struggling
Recognising when something isn’t right can make a huge difference. Look out for emotional, behavioural or physical changes.
Emotional signs
- Feeling sad, numb or hopeless
- Low self-esteem or guilt
- Feeling disconnected or overwhelmed
Behavioural signs
- Withdrawing from friends or activities
- Anger, irritability or aggression
- Overworking or losing motivation
- Using alcohol or substances to cope
- Talking about being a burden or “not seeing a way out”
Physical signs
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Low energy or fatigue
How to encourage men to open up
Starting the conversation can feel hard, but a calm, caring approach can help.
1. Choose the right time and place
Pick a private, relaxed setting – a walk, drive, or quiet moment – where you can talk without pressure.
2. Start with care, not confrontation
Use gentle concern:
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately.”
“You seem under a lot of pressure – want to talk about it?”
3. Listen without judgment
Avoid jumping in with solutions. Just listen and validate:
“That sounds really tough.”
“I can see why you’d feel that way.”
4. Normalise their feelings
Remind them that struggling doesn’t make them weak – many men feel this way, and help is available.
5. Offer practical help
Encourage small steps such as:
- Booking a GP appointment
- Trying counselling
- Joining a support group
Offer to help make the call or go with them if needed.
6. Keep checking in
If they don’t open up straight away, don’t give up. Consistent care builds trust — and shows they’re not alone.
Ways to support men’s mental wellbeing
- Promote activity: Regular movement or exercise reduces stress and lifts mood.
- Encourage connection: Time with friends, family or community groups combats isolation.
- Support balance: Help them set work boundaries and take breaks.
- Highlight professional help: GPs, therapists and helplines are confidential and effective.
- Model openness: When men see others talk honestly about mental health, it breaks stigma.
When to seek urgent help
If someone talks about feeling hopeless, worthless or suicidal, take it seriously.
Encourage them to get immediate help:
-
- Call 999 in an emergency
- Text “SHOUT” to 85258 for free, confidential support
- Call Samaritans on 116 123 (available 24/7)
- Contact their GP or NHS 111 for advice
Breaking the silence saves lives
Supporting men’s mental health starts with empathy, patience and honest conversation.
When we challenge stereotypes and create safe spaces for openness, we help more men find the confidence to ask for help – and that simple act can change, or even save, a life.
