What is Men’s Mental Health Month? Plus, 6 ways to support it
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Learn what (and when) Men’s Mental Health Month is, and why it's important. Plus, 6 ways to support the men in your life with their mental health struggles.
There have been a lot of conversations recently around what it means to have “masculine energy.” Some think that men aren’t as sensitive as women, and should do everything they can to avoid appearing emotional. (It’s no wonder men often have less practice actually feeling their feelings.)
But the truth is that many people struggle with being vulnerable, and the pressure we put on men only makes it that much harder for them to open up. These barriers often lead to men feeling lonely and not asking for help when they’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
Men’s Mental Health Month is meant to challenge this old way of thinking, bringing awareness to the importance of men’s emotional and psychological wellbeing. So whether you're a man looking to bring awareness to this important cause, or want to support a man in your life, we’ve got you.
What (and when) is Men’s Mental Health Month?
Every November, you might start to see men grow mustaches around the same time and wonder what’s going on. During this month, people celebrate “Movember,” which is a movement that encourages men to grow mustaches in an effort to spark talks on mental health, suicide prevention, and other health challenges.
Because of Movember, a lot of people think Men’s Mental Health Month is in November. But fun fact — it’s actually in June.
During this month, mental health advocates and communities come together to offer resources, support, and education to men and their loved ones. The goal’s to make mental health care more accessible and approachable for everyone and to show people that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Men can be far less likely to seek professional help than women. Which can lead to substance abuse and even suicide. Men’s Mental Health Month focuses on creating a supportive culture where everyone feels comfortable talking about their mental health. The goal is to break down stigma so that no one has to face their struggles alone.
3 key elements of Men’s Mental Health Month
Men’s Mental Health Month is all about awareness, and how the conversations we have and the resources we share can help to break the stigma around men getting the support they need.
Here’s a breakdown of Men’s Mental Health Month’s key elements:
Raising awareness and education: This month creates opportunities to educate the public, challenge misconceptions, and start essential conversations that could potentially save lives. Studies show that men are more likely to experience untreated mental health conditions, and also sadly suicide rates are a lot higher for men. Highlighting these facts is important. The more we know about men’s mental health, the more understanding and supportive we can be toward ourselves and the men in our lives.
Breaking the stigma: This month helps to encourage men to embrace their emotions by reminding them that asking for help is a courageous act. We’re constantly fed messages that masculinity is about being strong and tough. Some believe that men aren’t supposed to be vulnerable and admit they’re struggling — but they’re wrong. There’s nothing wrong with feeling your feelings. Men should seek additional support when they need it and be celebrated for that.
Support and resources: Another goal for this month is to make sure every man has access to the help he needs. There are tons of options to get support like talking to a therapist, joining an online support group, or calling a 24/7 health hotline. These resources should be easy to find and join, and this month helps to smooth the way for that.
Why is Men’s Mental Health Month important?
While it’s true that men can receive privileges solely because of their gender, they can also be subject to unrealistic expectations when it comes to their mental and emotional health. Here are a few reasons why men’s mental health needs our attention.
Men have higher suicide rates
Globally, men are almost two times more likely to die by suicide than women. And in the U.S., that number jumps to four times more likely. These heartbreaking numbers are usually linked to depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Many men don’t talk about their struggles because they’re taught from a young age that asking for help is a sign of weakness.
Men suffer from untreated mental health conditions
Men struggle with mental health just as much as women, but studies show they’re far less likely to seek therapy because of how it will be seen by others. Some men resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance abuse.
Men have “toxic masculinity” thrust upon them
Toxic masculinity is the idea that men should suppress their emotions and “tough it out” no matter what they’re feeling. This puts tons of pressure on men, and makes it incredibly difficult for them to be vulnerable and express their emotions. Over time, this can lead to intense feelings of loneliness.
Mentally healthy men build stronger relationships and communities
Men who feel supported and don’t feel shame asking for help with their mental health are better equipped to maintain meaningful relationships, be present for their loved ones, and contribute more to their communities.
How to celebrate Men’s Mental Health Month
There’s no one right way to celebrate the month or to support men, but you can focus on simple, thoughtful steps that feel right to you. No matter your gender, here are some ways you could help make a difference to the men in your life:
Start conversations about mental health
Ask the men in your life how they’re really feeling. This will let them know that it’s okay to open up without fear of judgment. These small talks can be the first step toward breaking the stigma.
Try this: Consider what words or phrases might help you feel comfortable opening up, and start your conversation there. You could say, “Hey, I’ve been focusing a lot on my mental health lately and it’s really helped me to talk about my feelings. So I just wanted to check in with you and see how you’re doing. I’m here for you if you want someone to talk to.”
Get involved with Movember
If you can grow a mustache—and like doing that—consider taking part in Movember. This a global movement that takes place in November where men grow mustaches as a way to spark conversations about men’s health and talk about suicide prevention.
Try this: If you can’t grow a mustache (or hate the way you look with one), don’t sweat it! Consider donating to Movember-related causes instead.
Organize a mental health workshop or discussion
If you work in an office or are a part of a community group, consider hosting an event celebrating men’s mental health. This doesn’t have to be something formal like a seminar. It could be super casual like a coffee hang where people can share experiences and learn from one another.
Try this: If you’re not sure what to talk about, consider topics like stress management (here are seven exercises to discuss), and what you do for self-care. You could also bring in a mental health professional if that’d make you more comfortable.
💙 If talking in front of a bunch of people gets you stressed, listen to the Pump The Brakes on Stress session with Jay Shetty before you get started.
Share resources on social media
Use your social media to spread awareness. Sharing trusted articles on men’s mental health (like this one!) can be an easy way to educate others and let the men in your life know that you care about them.
Try this: Here’s a caption you could use: “Happy Men’s Mental Health Month! To all the men in my life, I’m here for you. I hope you always feel okay to ask for the help you need — because you deserve it.”
Support local mental health organizations
Donate to a local charity or organization that focuses on men’s mental health. Your contribution can help support men who need it the most.
Try this: If money’s tight for you, consider volunteering instead or participating in one of their events.
Lead by example
If you’re comfortable, open up about your own mental health. Sharing your experiences with self-care, asking for help, or going to therapy can be a powerful way to help encourage others to do the same.
Try this: You never need to share more than you're comfortable with, so consider what aspects of your story feel okay to share, and know that it’s enough.
💙 Explore how you can play a part in the Democratization of Mental Health during this session with Jeff Warren.
5 ways to support the men in your life with their mental health struggles
If there’s a guy in your life that’s struggling with his mental health, you probably want to help him, but may not know where to start. The important thing is that he knows that he’s supported and to create an environment where he feels safe and understood. Here are six ways to help you do just that.
1. Listen without judgment
It can be tempting to offer advice or jump into problem solving mode when someone we love is hurting, but most of the time, the most powerful thing we can do is to simply listen. Let him share his feelings without interruption, and try not to offer solutions right away.
When he’s finished opening up, try to avoid minimizing their feelings with phrases like, “You’ll be fine,” Instead focus on phrases that focus on the present like, “I’m here for you.” (If listening doesn’t come naturally to you, here are five ways to get better at it.)
2. Encourage seeking professional help
A lot of men don’t seek out therapy because of stigma or fear of being seen as weak. If this is the case for your guy, try to gently encourage him to consider talking to a mental health professional. You could do this by explaining that therapy’s a safe space where they can work through their struggles without judgment. And reminding them that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
(If you or the men in your life struggle with asking for help, here are seven tips to help you.)
3. Model healthy emotional behavior
If you’re comfortable, share your experience with your own mental health challenges. Showing that it’s normal to have struggles—and ask for help—can make it so much easier for others to follow suit.
Here’s something you could say, “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, so I started journaling to get out my thoughts and it’s honestly been really helpful. I’m happy to show you how I like to do it if you’re interested.”
4. Check in regularly
Checking in shows that you care and are there for them. Set a reminder to send them a text, call them, or talk at home at the same time every week. These small gestures can go a long way to reminding them they’re not alone.
An easy way to check in would be: “I’ve been thinking about you. How are things? How are you?”
5. Promote self-care
Sometimes, men can feel guilty for taking time for themselves. If that’s the case for the man in your life, try to gently remind him that self-care isn’t selfish. Encourage him to prioritize activities like getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and taking time for hobbies he likes.
You could say, “Hey, you’ve been working yourself to the bone. Maybe you should go to that rock climbing spot you like this weekend. Might make you happy.” And if you (or he) needs more ideas, here are 20 self-care activities to prioritize your wellbeing.
Men's Mental Health Month FAQs
What are some common mental health challenges men face?
Men can experience a wide variety of mental health challenges. But the most common ones are depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse. The signs that show up the most are irritability, anger, or sometimes physical symptoms like fatigue and headaches.
Society teaches men to appear “strong” and self-reliant, which can make it hard for them to admit they’re struggling or to seek help. This can lead to untreated mental health issues that worsen over time. But if we slowly start to recognize these patterns, we can better support the men in our lives and encourage them to prioritize their mental health.
How can workplaces support Men’s Mental Health Month?
It’s important that workplaces prioritize the mental health of the men that work for them — and of all of their employees. This sends a powerful message that seeking help is both accepted and encouraged. It can also lead to better work from all of their employees.
Here are three steps companies can take to help support men during Men’s Mental Health Month:
Start conversations: Workplaces can host workshops that talk about mental health and address the specific challenges men face.
Offer resources: Workplaces can take the time to make sure employees know about Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health benefits, and local counseling services.
Create a supportive culture: Workplaces can encourage open dialogue about mental health where employees feel safe to talk about their struggles. Sending an email or putting up posters with hotline numbers can help create this supportive culture.
Why is there a stigma around mental health for men?
Our society encourages men to suppress their emotions. They’re taught from a young age to “be tough,” and “man up,” and told that crying, showing vulnerability, and asking for help are signs of weakness.
This stigma leads a lot of men to feel deep shame if they start to struggle with their mental health. Having a month focused on men’s mental health can remind men that vulnerability is a strength — and that it’s okay to talk about how you’re feeling.
How can I start a conversation about mental health with the men in my life?
Bringing up someone else’s mental health can leave you feeling awkward, and incredibly nervous.
Still, if you approach it from a place of genuine care and nonjudgment, the person should be able to tell your thoughtful intentions and respond in kind.
Also try to be patient and understanding, and don’t push for answers. Focus more on just letting them know you’re there for them. Here’s three ways you could start a conversation:
Checking in: “I noticed you’ve been a little stressed lately. How are you doing?”
Offering support: “No pressure, but I just wanted to say that I’m here for you if you ever want to talk about what’s on your mind.”
Normalizing the topic: “I’m in a place of wanting to talk about my mental health because I’ve gotten a lot of benefits from talking about it in the past. Could I ask how you take care of yourself when it gets tough for you?”
What resources are available for men seeking mental health support?
If you or someone you know is struggling, here are four resources that could help you navigate their mental health challenges:
Hotlines: In the U.S., the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers confidential and 24/7 support.
Therapy directories: Websites like Psychology Today or BetterHelp can help men find licensed therapists. You might consider looking for a therapist who specializes in working with men.
Peer support groups: Organizations like HeadsUpGuys and Movember provide online and in-person spaces for men to connect, share their experiences, and feel less alone.
Mental health apps: Apps like Calm offer helpful guided meditations and stress management tools from a variety of respected health care professionals and teachers.
Calm your mind. Change your life.
Mental health is hard. Getting support doesn't have to be. The Calm app puts the tools to feel better in your back pocket, with personalized content to manage stress and anxiety, get better sleep, and feel more present in your life.
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