Every 40 seconds, a man in the United States dies by suicide. Men account for nearly 80% of these deaths—a suicide rate four times higher than women’s. These numbers highlight why Men’s Mental Health Month in June is more than just a calendar event — it’s a national lifeline.
Society still tells men to “tough it out,” but silence can be deadly. “When we dismiss emotional struggles as weakness, we become part of the problem,” says Dr. Ethan Cole, a psychologist specializing in male trauma.
Men’s Mental Health Month is a call to break the stigma and start real conversations about stress, relationship pressure, and depression. More than 60% of men avoid therapy because of shame or fear. But small steps — like checking in on a friend or sharing the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — can save lives.
Key Takeaways
- Male suicide rates remain alarmingly high, with June serving as a critical intervention window
- Cultural expectations often prevent men from seeking help for emotional struggles
- Workplaces play a vital role in making mental health conversations normal
- The 988 Lifeline offers immediate support during crises
- Small daily actions from friends/family can disrupt harmful patterns
What Is Men’s Mental Health Month and Why It’s Important
Every June, communities across the U.S. come together to highlight a big issue: men’s mental health. Men’s Mental Health Month is a time to break old stereotypes, share resources, and start important talks. It’s not just about awareness; it’s about helping men feel okay to ask for help.
History of Men’s Health Month (1994 and Senator Bob Dole’s Role)
The movement started in 1994 with Men’s Health Week. Senator Bob Dole, who beat prostate cancer, led the charge. He wanted to help men see the value in health care, not just physical but mental too.
By 2002, June became a month for men’s health education. Groups like the Men’s Health Network and Movember joined forces. They showed that stigma can keep men from talking about their feelings.
Recognizing June as a Time to Break the Stigma
June is now Men’s Mental Health Month. It’s a time for everyone to talk openly about mental health. Schools, workplaces, and media join in to help.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) works with influencers to share real stories. They aim to show that being strong doesn’t mean hiding feelings.
“The stigma starts early—boys learn to hide vulnerability before they can spell ‘emotions.’ June gives us a chance to rewrite that script.”Mental Health Advocate, 2023 Interview
This month also offers real help for men’s mental health. There are free screenings and therapy groups just for men. June is about giving men the support they need, without judgment.
The Silent Epidemic: Men’s Mental Health Crisis by the Numbers
Millions of men fight mental health battles in secret. They rarely talk about it. Despite progress, men face high risks of depression and suicide. Let’s look at the numbers behind this crisis.
Suicide Rates Among Men: A Global and U.S. Overview
WHO says men make up 4 out of 5 suicide deaths worldwide. In the U.S., the numbers are even more alarming:
| Group | U.S. Suicide Rate (per 100k) | Global Male:Female Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Men 45-54 | 35.7 | 4:1 |
| White Males | 29.1 | |
| Veterans | 52.3 |
“Male suicide isn’t just a statistic – it’s a preventable outcome of untreated mental illness.”
Depression in Men: Symptoms Often Missed
Every year, 6 million U.S. men deal with depression (NIMH). But only 28% get help. Why? The usual signs of depression don’t always show up in men:
- Irritability instead of sadness
- Physical problems like headaches
- Reckless actions like substance abuse
Why Men Are Less Likely to Seek Help
A 2025 Johns Hopkins study found three main reasons:
- Men fear being judged as weak.
- They think therapy won’t work.
- There aren’t enough mental health services for men.
The Role of Stigma and Societal Expectations in Men’s Mental Health
Cultural norms often box men into rigid roles that leave little room for vulnerability. From childhood, phrases like “boys don’t cry” shape how men process emotions. This creates a ripple effect that impacts mental health outcomes.
These expectations don’t just fade with age—they become ingrained barriers to seeking help.
How Toxic Masculinity Suppresses Emotional Expression
The American Psychological Association links toxic masculinity to higher rates of substance abuse and isolation. Men raised with “tough it out” messaging often view emotional openness as weakness. For example, 67% of construction workers avoid discussing depression due to fears of being labeled “unreliable” at work.
Fear of Judgment and Shame: Cultural Barriers to Help-Seeking
Many men describe therapy as a last resort, fearing colleagues or family might discover they’re struggling. One therapist notes:
“Men often equate asking for help with failure—like they’re letting down their entire identity.”
This shame cycle keeps issues buried until they reach crisis levels.
The Burden of “Man Up” Advice
Childhood lessons like “man up” resurface during adulthood stressors. Programs like Man Therapy counter this by reframing help-seeking as strength. Their approach uses humor and plain language to dismantle therapy stigma, showing men they don’t need to face challenges alone.
Breaking these patterns starts with recognizing how societal scripts limit emotional growth. By challenging outdated norms, we create spaces where men can prioritize mental wellness without judgment.
Hidden Signs of Depression in Men
Depression in men often hides behind symptoms that don’t fit what we expect. Instead of just feeling sad, men might feel physical pain, get angry easily, or act recklessly. Spotting these signs early could save lives—men are 3x more likely to die by suicide if depression isn’t treated.
Emotional Suppression: Irritability Over Sadness
Men often show anger instead of sadness when they’re depressed. A study at the Cleveland Clinic found 45% of men say they feel constantly irritable. This can make it hard to get the right diagnosis—about 1 in 3 men with depression are mislabeled as stressed or having a personality disorder.
Withdrawal, Fatigue, and Aches: What Men Often Report Instead
Men with depression often talk about physical issues. Look out for:
- Unexplained back pain or headaches
- Extreme fatigue despite getting enough sleep
- Sudden loss of interest in things they used to enjoy
These physical complaints make up 68% of male depression cases, according to doctors. Unlike women, men’s symptoms are often seen as “general malaise” on medical charts.
Behavioral Signs: Risk-Taking, Substance Abuse, and Anger
Depression in men can lead to risky behaviors. ER data shows:
“Opioid misuse is often a sign of male depression. These men aren’t looking for a high—they’re trying to escape emotional pain.”Dr. Richard White, Addiction Specialist
Other warning signs include sudden gambling, aggressive driving, or fights at work. Men with depression are 2.5x more likely to abuse substances than women with the same condition.
Vulnerable Groups: How Minority Men Are Affected Differently
Mental health issues don’t hit all men the same way. Systemic barriers, cultural stigma, and discrimination make things tough for minority groups. LGBTQ+ men, veterans, and Indigenous communities face extra challenges because of who they are.
LGBTQ+ Men and Mental Health Disparities
About 40% of LGBTQ+ men deal with anxiety disorders, which is twice as common as in straight men. They often don’t get help because of discrimination and fear of being judged. Many hide their true selves in therapy to avoid being rejected.
The Human Rights Campaign says we need care that understands LGBTQ+ issues. Training therapists and making safe spaces can help more men get the help they need.
Veterans’ Mental Health: PTSD and Isolation
Every day, 17 veterans in the U.S. take their own lives, with PTSD affecting 1 in 5. Moving back to civilian life can make men feel left out. The VA’s REACH VET program uses AI to find at-risk veterans by looking at their behavior.
Peer support groups help fight loneliness. Programs like Buddy Check get veterans to check in on each other every week. Just talking to someone can help break the cycle of sadness.
Black, Indigenous, and Latino Men: Systemic Barriers
Native American men have suicide rates twice as high as the national average. Black men face racism and high costs, making them less likely to seek help. Nonprofits like Black Men Heal offer free therapy to help bridge this gap.
Latino men might not get help because of language barriers or worries about immigration. But community-led programs with bilingual counselors see much higher participation than regular clinics.
Men with Disabilities: Mental Health Distress
63% of men with physical disabilities often feel mentally distressed. Places without ramps or sign language interpreters make them feel left out. But sports programs and online therapy are starting to help.
Employers can also make a big difference. By providing accommodations and mental health days, they can cut down on burnout by 41% in men with chronic conditions.
Real Stories: What Men Say About Their Struggles During Men’s Mental Health Month
Every statistic about men’s mental health has a real story behind it. In June 2024, r/MensLib showed how men talk about feeling trapped and alone. These stories, along with what therapists say, explain why Men’s Sheds are becoming more popular in the U.S.
“I Hate What Society Expects Me to Be” – Insights from Reddit
One Reddit user shared a common feeling:
“I’m supposed to be the rock for everyone, but who holds me up? My therapist says I’m grieving, but real men don’t ‘do’ sadness.”
Dr. Marcus Chen, a licensed counselor, says: “Many men think being open is a sign of weakness. They might talk about physical problems before their emotional ones.”
Three main points come up in these discussions:
- Work often takes priority over taking care of oneself
- There’s a fear of being seen as weak for asking for help
- Men often struggle with knowing how to talk about their mental health
“I Want to Cry, But I Can’t” – The Reality of Bottled Emotions
A 28-year-old’s post became very popular:
“My dog died last month. I haven’t shed a tear, but I’ve punched three walls. What’s wrong with me?”
It’s common for men to struggle with showing their emotions. Studies show men are 40% less likely to cry when they’re sad. This is often because they were taught as kids that “big boys don’t cry.”
Dr. Ethan Torres offers advice on how to help a man with depression:
- Make emotional check-ins a part of everyday activities
- Use metaphors to talk about stress, like “Is your stress tank full?”
- Share crisis resources early, before they’re needed urgently
Men’s Sheds, where men work on projects together, show that men can open up in safe spaces. One member said: “We talk about woodworking first, then life stuff just… comes out.”
Many men turn to familiar coping methods when they face mental health issues. These methods, based on the need to be self-reliant, might seem to help at first. But they rarely solve the real problem. Here, we look at three common strategies that don’t work, based on real stories and research.
Bottling Emotions and Denial
Keeping feelings hidden is like trying to hold back a boiling pot. It only gets worse. ER doctors often see men who ignore early signs of illness. This can lead to physical problems like constant tiredness or pain without a clear cause.
“I told myself, ‘I’m fine,’ even when I couldn’t sleep for weeks. Denial just made everything louder.”—Anonymous Reddit user
Self-Medication with Alcohol or Drugs
The SAMHSA 2025 report shows that 1 in 4 men use substances to cope with stress. While it might make them feel better for a while, it comes with big risks:
- It can lead to addiction
- It can make anxiety or depression worse
- It can hurt relationships
Groups like Tempest focus on helping men recover. They use a peer-based approach, focusing on connection over labels.
Avoiding Therapy Due to Clinical Language
Words like “diagnosis” or “treatment plan” can be scary. Many men prefer simpler ideas:
- “Mental fitness” instead of “therapy”
- “Recharge sessions” over “cognitive behavioral therapy”
Groups and apps with easy-to-use interfaces are helping. They offer support without using hard-to-understand terms.
What Men Want: Their Dream Outcome for Mental Wellness
Men want a world where mental health is easy to get, feels real, and isn’t stuck in old ideas. A survey showed 72% of men like the term mental fitness better than fancy words. They dream of a future where emotional health is easy to reach.
A Safe Space to Be Vulnerable Without Judgment
Imagine a place where talking about stress or feeling lonely is as common as sports talk. Men want spots where they can be real without being seen as weak. This could be through special therapy groups, mental health talks at work, or apps made for guys.
Brands like Nike are starting to help. They have programs like Mind Sets where athletes like Kevin Love talk about feeling anxious and staying strong.
Reframing Strength: Help-Seeking as Courage
“Being strong isn’t about hiding pain—it’s about being brave enough to ask for help,” says Dr. Ryan McKelley. Men want to change what it means to be strong to include being open about feelings. Programs like MenLiving show that being open can make us stronger, not weaker.
Practical Tools Over Clinical Terms
Men prefer tools that fit into their everyday lives, not just therapy:
- The Calm app has a For Men meditation pack that uses sports to teach calmness
- Workout plans that also help with feeling better (like stress-relief HIIT)
- Guides that teach men to understand their feelings as skills to learn
This way, therapy for men feels more like growing as a person, not just getting a label.
How to Support Men in Your Life During Men’s Mental Health Month
June is a key time to help men’s mental health. You can be a partner, friend, or coworker. Small actions can help men feel less alone and more connected. Here’s how to support men in a way that respects their needs.
Listening Actively and Creating a Safe Space
Active listening is all about understanding, not fixing. Start with questions like, “How have you been feeling?” instead of yes/no answers. Don’t interrupt or ignore their feelings, even if they’re hidden in jokes or anger.
Workplaces can help by:
- Training managers to spot burnout signs
- Offering flexible work hours under ADA rules
- Creating quiet rooms for mental breaks
“Sometimes men just need to hear, ‘I’m here, no matter what you’re carrying.’”NAMI’s “You Are Not Alone” Campaign
Encouraging Conversations and Sharing Resources
Make talking about mental health normal. Use simple language. Try a weekly text like: “No pressure to reply – just checking in. Coffee’s on me if you want to talk.” Share resources like HeadsUpGuys’ toolkits, MenLiving’s groups, and the 988 Lifeline.
For families, try a weekly “devices down” hour. It helps everyone talk more.
Promoting Self-Care Without Shame
See self-care as a must, not a luxury. Suggest activities that men enjoy:
- Weightlifting to reduce stress
- Fishing for a calm moment
- Gaming to meet new people
Employers can support this by giving mental health days. Celebrate when men take these days. It shows it’s okay to take care of oneself.
What Men Can Do for Themselves: Everyday Mental Wellness Practices
Improving your mental health is easy. Small actions can lead to big changes. These tips help you handle stress and build resilience.
Free Online Depression Self-Check Tools
Knowing your mental state is key. Free tools help you check in privately. The WHO-5 Well-Being Index is a quick 5-question survey for depression risk.
Apps like Headspace offer mental health checks for men:
- Headspace’s “Mindful Check-In” tracks mood patterns
- Calm’s anxiety assessment tool
- MindDoc’s daily emotion journal
“Understanding your mental state starts with simple check-ins – it’s like a weather report for your mind.”Headspace Men’s Mental Health Guide
Building Emotional Vocabulary
Many men find it hard to express their feelings. Start with a “feeling wheel” to name emotions. Try these steps:
- Journal three emotions daily using apps like Daylio
- Practice “I feel _ because _” statements
- Join MenLiving’s virtual discussion groups
Exercise, Nature, and Nutrition for Mental Well-Being
Your body and mind work together. A 2023 study found exercise and nature reduce anxiety by 41%. Even short workouts help.
| Activity | Weekly Goal | Mental Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Brisk Walking | 150 minutes | Lowers cortisol levels |
| Strength Training | 2 sessions | Boosts dopamine production |
| Trail Hiking | 1 hour | Enhances focus |
Combine exercise with healthy eating. Men’s Health suggests a meal plan with omega-3s and magnesium. Hiker Mark Rivera says walking 10 miles daily helped his anxiety.
Encouraging Professional Help and Breaking Barriers to Therapy
Seeking professional help can feel scary, but it’s a powerful step for mental health. Many men are held back by shame or not knowing where to start. Let’s look at ways to break these barriers and find support.
Addressing Embarrassment and Shame
Feeling shy about therapy is normal, but you’re not alone. Sixty percent of men avoid counseling because they fear being judged. But asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Start by talking to a trusted friend or using online forums. These can be safe places to share your feelings.
“Therapy isn’t about fixing ‘broken’ people—it’s about giving yourself tools to thrive.”Dr. Michael Addis, Author of Invisible Men
Types of Help: Therapy, Peer Support, Hotlines
Today, there are many ways to get help:
| Type | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Therapy | In-person sessions with licensed professionals | Deep emotional work |
| Online Platforms (BetterHelp, Pride Counseling) | Video/text sessions, LGBTQ+-affirming care | Busy schedules or privacy concerns |
| Peer Support Groups (MenLiving, Face It) | Shared experiences in male-focused spaces | Building community connections |
The Mental Health Parity Act makes therapy covered by insurance. Veterans can get help quickly at the VA.
Emergency Resources: 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, SAMHSA
In emergencies, help is just a call away:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for treatment referrals
These services are safe and have trained counselors. Over 200,000 men used the 988 Lifeline in its first year. It shows reaching out can help.
Resources for Men’s Mental Health: Where to Turn for Support
Finding reliable support is key for men facing mental health issues. Stigma is a big obstacle, but knowing where to go can help. This guide points to trusted groups and agencies that meet men’s specific needs.
Organizations Focused on Men’s Mental Health
Special groups offer support that fits men’s needs at every stage:
- HeadsUpGuys: Provides science-backed ways to deal with depression. They offer free self-check tools and plans to prevent relapse.
- MenLiving: Runs virtual and in-person groups for men. They focus on real connections and personal growth.
- Face It Foundation: Offers free counseling and mentorship for men with suicidal thoughts.
- Therapy for Black Men: Helps Black men find licensed therapists who get cultural barriers to care.
- Movember: Funds research on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and male suicide prevention worldwide.
National and Global Support Networks
These agencies help with crisis, education, and advocacy worldwide:
- SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): Runs a 24/7 National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) for treatment referrals.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Offers support groups for survivors and mental health training for workplaces.
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Provides free courses for families and veterans through local chapters.
- World Health Organization: Publishes global mental health plans that address male-specific risks.
- Crisis Text Line: Offers free 24/7 text support (741741) with trained counselors.
Year-Round Commitment: Why Men’s Mental Health Matters Beyond June
June brings attention to men’s mental health, but we need to keep talking all year. We can’t just stop caring when the month ends. Families, employers, and communities must work together every day to help men feel free to talk about their feelings.
Building Sustainable Support Systems
Delta Air Lines has made a big promise to help men by 2025. They want to add more male therapists. This is a great example of how companies can make a real difference.
Now, over 2.5 million people can help others by recognizing early signs of mental health issues. This shows that real change is possible when we all work together.
Honoring Progress While Pushing Forward
More men are talking about their feelings now than before, but we have a long way to go. We can help by sharing resources like Movember’s programs or the 988 Lifeline. These can help make it okay to ask for help.
Joining groups like MenLiving or donating to Face It Foundation can also help. Even small actions, like checking in with someone or sharing your own story, can make a big difference.
Mental wellness for men is important all year, not just in June. Let’s keep fighting stereotypes and celebrating when men are brave enough to be open about their feelings. The battle to end stigma will continue long after June is over.
Conclusion: Don’t Give Up — You Deserve Support
June isn’t just another month — it’s a powerful reminder that Men’s Mental Health Month exists to break silence, challenge stigma, and save lives. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, shut down, or like you had to carry everything alone, please know this: you’re not weak, and you’re not alone.
Mental health struggles don’t make you any less of a man. They make you human. Whether you’re dealing with stress, depression, or just trying to understand your emotions — you deserve support, not silence.
Use this Men’s Mental Health Month as a starting point. Talk to someone. Take the first small step. Share this with a friend. Check out a free self-assessment. Or simply take a moment to breathe and know that it’s okay not to be okay.
Because real strength? It starts when you reach out.
FAQs
When is Men’s Mental Health Month?
Men’s Mental Health Month is observed in June in the United States. However, some countries, like the UK, also highlight men’s mental health during November through the Movember movement.
Is June officially Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month?
Yes, June is officially recognized in the U.S. as Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness and support men facing mental health challenges.
Why is Men’s Mental Health Month important?
This month highlights the mental health struggles men face, including high rates of suicide, emotional suppression, and stigma around seeking help. It aims to break the silence and encourage support.
When did Men’s Mental Health Month start?
Men’s Health Month began in 1994, initiated by Senator Bob Dole. The mental health focus has grown significantly since then to address male depression and suicide.
Is it true that Men’s Mental Health Month is in November?
In the UK and some global campaigns like Movember, men’s mental health is emphasized in November. In the U.S., June is the recognized month for Men’s Mental Health Awareness.
What is the official color for Men’s Mental Health Month?
The color associated with Men’s Mental Health Month is light blue. It symbolizes calm, clarity, and openness around discussing men’s emotional well-being.
Why is Men’s Mental Health Month often overlooked?
Many people aren’t aware of Men’s Mental Health Month due to societal stigma and underrepresentation in mainstream campaigns. It’s a growing movement that needs more visibility.
What are common signs of mental health issues in men?
Men often show depression through irritability, anger, fatigue, and withdrawal instead of sadness. Many also self-medicate or avoid talking about emotions.
What are the top causes of mental health problems in men?
Top triggers include work stress, financial pressure, relationship issues, and untreated trauma. Cultural norms also discourage emotional expression in men.
How does toxic masculinity affect men’s mental health?
Toxic masculinity teaches men to hide emotions and avoid vulnerability. This leads to suppressed feelings, reluctance to seek help, and higher mental health risks.
Is it a sign of weakness for men to ask for help?
No, asking for help shows strength and self-awareness. Seeking therapy or talking openly supports healing and challenges outdated gender norms.
How can I support someone during Men’s Mental Health Month?
Start open conversations, listen without judgment, share helpful resources, and encourage professional support. A safe space can change someone’s life.
Are there tools or self-assessments for men’s mental health?
Yes, platforms like HeadsUpGuys offer free online depression self-checks tailored for men. These tools help men recognize symptoms early.
What mental health resources are available for men?
Resources include the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, SAMHSA helpline, therapy directories, and men-focused organizations like HeadsUpGuys and MenLiving.
Can men show depression differently than women?
Yes, men may express depression through anger, isolation, or risky behavior rather than sadness. These signs are often missed or misdiagnosed.
Is Men’s Mental Health Month recognized worldwide?
Awareness varies by country. The U.S. observes it in June, while other regions like the UK emphasize men’s mental health in November through Movember.