November is here, and with it is Men’s Health Awareness Month. A critical time to shine a spotlight on an issue too often kept in the dark: men’s mental health.
Men’s Mental Health
Mental health challenges affect people of all genders, but outcomes for those who identify as men are often shaped by distinct social pressures and stigma. Restrictive norms around masculinity, such as the expectation to appear strong, emotionless, or always in control, have contributed to poorer mental health outcomes.
This November, we encourage everyone in our network to raise awareness, start conversations, and signpost support men within their organisations, businesses and personal life. Together, we can normalise conversations, end the stigma, and ensure people can access help when they need it.
Why Men’s Mental Health Awareness is Critical
The following statistics from the UK emphasise the urgent need to address this issue:
The Cost of Silence
- Four in five suicides are by men, with suicide being the single biggest cause of death for men under 35 (UK Parliament).
- One man in five dies before the age of 65 (Men’s Health Forum).
- Three times more men are likely to die by suicide in England than women (Samaritans, 2023).
- Almost double the rate of men die from alcohol-specific causes than women (Office for National Statistics, 2022).
The Reluctance to Seek Help
- 50% of men have struggled with mental health difficulties at some point, yet fewer than half have sought medical advice (BUPA Wellbeing Index).
- 37% of UK men admit actively hiding their mental health issues from their partners (BUPA Wellbeing Index).
- 30% of men surveyed said they didn’t know where to turn for advice or support (BUPA Wellbeing Index).
- A significant 65% of employees recognise that stigma around men’s mental health remains strong (BUPA Wellbeing Index).
- 5% of men in England have a mental health disorder (NHS Digital).
The Impact of Societal Expectations
Unhelpful gender norms perpetuate stereotypes that men should be stoic, not show emotions, or be outwardly “tough.” When men do show vulnerability, they are often told to “man up” or risk being mocked, reinforcing the belief that seeking help is a sign of weakness.
This pressure contributes to men being more likely to experience substance abuse, exhibit violence, and die by suicide. While women are more likely to be diagnosed with common mental disorders, men are more commonly diagnosed with substance use disorders and antisocial behaviours. These gender differences are complex, and the reluctance of men to report their experiences is a significant factor.
It’s also important to note that mental health issues can affect men at specific times, such as the postpartum period: 1 in 10 new fathers may also experience postpartum depression and anxiety.
Barriers for Marginalised Groups
Systemic issues compound the problem for marginalised groups:
- Due to systemic racism and social expectations of masculinity, Black men are more likely to hide their mental health struggles, are more likely to be sectioned under the Mental Health Act, and face disproportionate barriers to seeking help.
- Other groups, including South Asian men, LGBTQIA+ men, and men with disabilities, may also face additional stigma, cultural barriers, or a lack of culturally competent services, making it even harder to speak up.
Taking Action: Support and Resources
Building positive mental health in and support for men should be a focus every day of the year. Reaching out for help takes courage and is a crucial step in taking charge of your mental wellbeing.
For Individuals: Getting Support
If you identify as male and are struggling, remember you are not alone. It’s a misconception that talking about suicide will “put the idea” into someone’s head; research shows that asking about suicidal thoughts is actually more likely to save a person’s life.
If you need urgent mental health support, contact your:
- GP and ask for an emergency appointment.
- Local NHS 111 service.
If you are worried about someone else, encourage them to talk and let them know you’re there to listen without judgment.
Organisations: Building a Culture of Prevention
We work with organisations to improve help with mental health support by providing the skills, clarity, and confidence on how to raise awareness, improve understanding, implement effective interventions, and address stigma. While being a safe space for men to find support and reassurance.
If you you are looking for support and guidance, remember you are not alone and there is always someone here to listen. Please reach out to the contacts below:
SOS Silence of Suicide
- A suicide prevention and emotional well-being helpline. If you feel unable to talk about how you are feeling with your friends, family or your doctor, they are here to talk, listen and support you.
- For support, call their freephone number: 0808 115 1505
Mates in mind:
- You can also use their “BeAMate” text support service. To use the service, simply text “BeAMate” to 85258 and trained volunteers can help with issues including anxiety, stress, loneliness or depression and are available 24/7.
Minding your head:
- Minding your head has information, advice and support to help people in Northern Ireland look after and improve their mental health and wellbeing, and find out what to do in a crisis.
Lifeline:
- A Free 24-hour crisis response helpline for people who are experiencing distress or despair, where trained counsellors will listen and help immediately on the phone and follow up with other support if necessary.
- Tel: 0808 808 8000
Samaritans:
- A registered charity aimed at providing emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout UK and Ireland, often through their telephone helpline or online chat.
- Freephone: 116 123
Please use the platforms listed in this article to reach out for support. Let’s work together to raise awareness and support the men in our lives. Remember: You are not alone.
Further information:
Mates in mind: Men’s Health Month (November 2025).
Men’s mental Health UK.
Men’s Health Month 2025: Shining Light on the Silent Struggle.
Mental Health Awareness week 2025.
Emma Piorkowska joined Oakwood Solicitors in October 2009 and qualified as a Solicitor in September 2013. Emma works in our Psychiatric Injury and Employment departments, specialising in Work-Re…
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