Everyone is impacted by mental health issues. However, it is often overlooked in men as they are typically less likely to seek support or speak openly about their struggles. Whether they feel insecure, or less masculine in doing so, a stigma surrounding this topic remains attached. With June being Men’s Mental Health Month, we would like to chat about a few things we can normalize to help improve mental health among this group.
Asking for help
A 2025 national survey of 2,000 men found that 64% of participants reported moderate to high levels of stress, and 67% reported never seeking out professional mental health services for help or support.
Those struggling with their mental health can feel isolated and even more so for men who struggle with asking for support with sadness, anxiety, or depression.
Having a support system is crucial, especially to encourage men to speak up about their mental health struggles.
Some ways in which you can support a man facing a difficult time can include the following:
- be present
- talk openly about emotions, and ensure his feelings are validated
- be patient and non-judgemental,
- encourage him to seek the help of a professional
- don’t try to ‘fix’ him, or the situation
- create a safe space for him to speak, free of shame or embarrassment
The younger men learn that they don’t have to “man up” in stressful situations and are taught that their feelings are valid and normal, the more likely they will continue to speak up as adults.
“1 in 2 Canadian men are at risk of social isolation. Not having people to confide in is associated with higher stress and risk of depression.” –2025 CMHF Men’s Mental Health Report
Going to therapy
In some cases, men don’t consider themselves to be mentally unwell, which makes it challenging to recognize that they need support from a medical professional. Problems often surface in ways that look different from women, and men often report that the source of their issues are related to issues such as employment stress, financial insecurity, conflicts with their partners, and concerns about their children. Since symptoms in men can manifest in ways like anger and aggression, they often don’t recognize that they are experiencing depression, or dealing with anxiety.
Encouraging your loved one to seek professional help isn’t a sign of weakness. Rather, it is one that should be acknowledged as strong and brave.
Showing emotions
We have all heard the outdated phrase, “boys don’t cry.” However, as we continue to educate ourselves about mental health, and as the world continues to evolve, we know this is not true. It is, indeed, okay for boys, and men, to cry. Expressing emotions is a healthy way to process your feelings. In hiding emotions, it is much more difficult to cope and seek support.
If you, or a man in your life is struggling, there is help available. More resources and information can be found by clicking here.
It is important for everyone to feel seen and heard. To accomplish this, it is key to understand and respect the feelings of others, in all situations. Emotions are often difficult to work through, but with the right support system, and proper resources there is light at the end of the tunnel.
