Mental health affects everyone differently, but certain concerning trends emerge when we examine mental health across different demographics. This Men’s Health Month, we wish to shine a spotlight on the unique struggles men face when dealing with poor mental health and raise awareness for the resources and tactics that exist to combat these struggles.

Research indicates that men are less likely to seek medical help when needed. This highlights a societal need for change in how we approach men’s health issues. Campaigns such as Movember and Men’s Health Awareness Month hope to bring an end to the perceived stigma surrounding men discussing both their physical and mental health — and with good reason considering some of the statistics attached to men’s mental health alone.

How are men impacted by mental health?

Looking at the most extreme cases of poor mental health, it’s been reported that four in five suicides are by men, with suicide becoming the biggest cause of death for men under 35. An estimated 60 men every hour die from suicide globally, with 6,319 suicides registered in the UK in 2021 attributed to men. Because mental health issues in men are less likely to be accurately reported, largely due to men not reaching out for the support they need, these statistics are our most well-defined insight into the enormity of the issue.

The lack of support doesn’t only come from men not reporting though. In 2021, 51.7% of women with a mental health condition received support from mental health services, while only 40% of men with a mental health condition did. Men are also more likely to be compulsorily detained (or ‘sectioned’) for treatment than women. This disparity in care shows a need for improvement of mental health systems to better support men, and sooner.

What role does ‘toxic masculinity’ play in men’s mental health?

Toxic masculinity is defined as adherence to societal standards or norms placed on men and masculine-identifying individuals with limiting and harmful outcomes. These outcomes can be harmful to others, for example in the case of sexism or homophobia, or to the individual themselves.

Common themes in toxic masculinity that can directly impede men’s ability to communicate about their mental health or seek help are:

• Practicing hyper independence
• Being unwilling to share emotions
• An unconditional need for perceived toughness and strength
• Being emotionally insensitive

It’s important to note that, while most prevalent in men and masculine-identifying individuals, toxic masculinity can be upheld by anyone. By being aware of the ideas about men’s health we have that stem from these themes, we can work to change our perspectives. By changing the way we view men’s mental health, we can create an environment in which men no longer avoid seeking help for fear of appearing weak.

What are signs of mental illness in men to look out for?

With toxic masculinity in mind, the way mental illness presents in men can be unique from women in some areas. For example, men are more likely to engage in substance misuse in the place of mental health care as a means to self-medicate rather than share their feelings. This being said, if you notice any of the following in a man (or any person) you know, it could be worth starting the conversation about their wellbeing.

• Increased anger, irritability, or aggression
• Noticeable changes in energy levels or appetite
• Difficulty sleeping or a noticeable increase in sleep
• Difficulty concentrating, restlessness, or appearing on edge
• Misuse of drugs, alcohol, or both
• Engaging in high-risk activities
• Showing reduced interest in work, family, or social life
• Unexplained and persistent health concerns

If you’d like to speak to a loved one or friend about their mental health but are unsure how to go about it, there are resources to help. Movember Coversations is a tool to help you practice having hard conversations with the men in your life who may be struggling. You can also use the ALEC model.

What is the ALEC model?

Developed by R U OK?, the ALEC model provides a simple, four-step approach to support a loved one with their mental health. Those steps are as follows.

ASK
Start by asking how your loved one is feeling. It may be worth mentioning any changes you’ve noticed so that they can address your concerns directly. Remember, most people will say they’re fine on instinct, so don’t be afraid to ask twice and be specific about the behaviours that are concerning you.

LISTEN
It’s important to offer your full attention when they open up. Show you’re listening, validate what they’re telling you, and let them know you’re not judging them. You don’t have to offer solutions or diagnose what you think is wrong, but asking questions and engaging with what they’re saying can show you’re listening.

ENCOURAGE ACTION
Help them focus on simple and achievable steps to improve how they feel. Focus on things that can be addressed easily such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking care of physical health. You can ask if anything has helped them in the past that my help them get back on track. It’s also worth encouraging them to open up to other people they trust if they’re struggling, especially in the case of speaking to a doctor if they have been feeling low for more than two weeks.

CHECK IN
Suggest catching up again soon, ideally in person if you can. Community is important and it shows that you care while also giving you an opportunity to get a feel for whether they’re feeling any better. If you can’t meet in person, dropping them a message or making time for a call can still go a long way.

What resources are there for men’s mental health?

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health, consulting a doctor is always a good first step. That being said, there are amazing resources available, both universally and specifically to men. You can find a full list of resources through the Movember website.