International Men's Day is observed annually on 19 November to raise awareness about the importance of mental health for men.
This year’s theme, "Positive Male Role Models," highlights the importance of fostering open conversations about men's mental health and creating supportive environments in which men can thrive.
While this day encourages open discussion about mental health, it’s crucial to recognise that some communities face greater barriers than others when it comes to seeking help. One such group is men.
For too long, societal norms have placed heavy expectations on men to be stoic, strong, and self-reliant—pressures that have, unfortunately, led to silence around the emotional struggles many men face.
In honour of World Men's Mental Health Day, Pulse is urging every man to break this silence, dismantle the stigma, and speak out about their mental health.
The Pressure to Be "Strong"
From a young age, boys are often conditioned to avoid vulnerability. Phrases like "boys don’t cry" or "man up" are ingrained in the language of many cultures, implying that emotions such as sadness, fear, or anxiety are signs of weakness. As a result, many men grow up with a distorted view of emotional expression, where showing feelings is seen as incompatible with traditional ideals of masculinity.
This pressure to be constantly "strong" can be overwhelming. Men are frequently told to suppress their emotions, deal with their problems alone, and avoid seeking help.
Unfortunately, these expectations can manifest in damaging ways. Research shows that men are less likely to seek mental health support, even when struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or stress. Instead, they may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse, anger, or even self-harm. Tragically, suicide rates among men are significantly higher than those among women, with men accounting for around 75% of all suicides globally, according to the World Health Organisation.
Breaking the Silence: Why It’s Essential
The first step in breaking the cycle of silence is recognising that mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness—they are a natural part of the human experience. Just as physical health is important, mental health is essential to overall well-being. Ignoring or neglecting mental health can have serious, long-term consequences, not only for the individual but also for their families, communities, and society at large.
1. Normalising Emotional Expression
One of the most critical ways to address men's mental health is by normalising emotional expression. Emotions like sadness, vulnerability, and fear should not be seen as a threat to masculinity. Rather, acknowledging and sharing these feelings can actually make a man stronger by helping him process and manage them. Reaching out to others—whether friends, family members, or professionals—can create a support network that fosters healing and growth.
Men need to understand that seeking help is an act of courage, not weakness. It’s important for society to shift the narrative around masculinity so that asking for help is seen as a strength rather than a failure. Encouraging open conversations about emotions, both at home and in the workplace, can help reduce the stigma that so often surrounds mental health in men.
2. Creating Safe Spaces for Conversation
Creating safe, non-judgemental spaces where men can talk about their mental health is crucial. These spaces can be found in various settings, from mental health support groups to informal gatherings with close friends. When men feel they are in an environment where they won’t be shamed or ridiculed for expressing their emotions, they are more likely to open up about their struggles.
In the workplace, fostering a culture of understanding and support for mental health is equally important. Employers should make it clear that discussing mental health is encouraged, providing resources such as counselling services, mental health days, and a supportive atmosphere. When men feel they won’t face negative repercussions for discussing mental health at work, they are more likely to seek help and maintain their well-being.
3. Encouraging Role Models and Public Figures
One powerful way to challenge the stigma surrounding men’s mental health is through the influence of public figures and role models. Celebrities, athletes, and leaders who openly discuss their struggles with mental health can have a profound impact on breaking down barriers.
When high-profile individuals share their personal experiences, they demonstrate that mental health is a universal concern that transcends status, wealth, and strength.
For example, athletes like Kevin Love and DeMar DeRozan have used their platforms to speak about their struggles with anxiety and depression, encouraging others to do the same. Their openness has helped normalise mental health conversations within the sports community and beyond.
4. Encouraging Early Intervention
Starting conversations about mental health early in life can be a game-changer. Teaching young boys that it’s okay to talk about their feelings, express their emotions, and seek help if needed is vital in changing future attitudes. Schools, families, and communities can assist by providing mental health education, promoting emotional literacy, and ensuring that children of all genders understand that their mental well-being matters.
It’s also important to emphasise that seeking therapy or counselling isn’t just for moments of crisis. Mental health care is a proactive tool that can help anyone maintain emotional health and navigate life’s challenges. In fact, therapy can be just as important for personal development as physical fitness, and encouraging men to seek therapy is an essential part of breaking the silence.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
As we reflect on World Men's Mental Health Day, it’s clear that the silence surrounding men’s mental health is an issue that needs to be addressed. The road to change requires collective action. It requires men speaking up about their struggles, communities offering support, and society working to dismantle harmful stereotypes.
If you are a man who is struggling with your mental health, know that you are not alone. There is no shame in seeking help—whether it’s talking to a friend, reaching out to a therapist, or finding a support group. Opening up is the first step toward healing, and it’s one of the bravest things you can do.
If you are someone who knows a man who might be struggling, offer a listening ear, check in regularly, and create a space where they feel safe to express themselves. You might not have all the answers, but just being there can make a world of difference.
By encouraging men to break the silence and seek support, we can change the narrative around mental health and create a more compassionate world for everyone—regardless of gender.
Let’s raise our voices and let men know it’s okay to not be okay.