June is Men’s Mental Health Month, which provides an important opportunity to shine a light on a critical issue that often goes unaddressed in today’s world, the alarming global rate of suicide among men, underscoring the urgent need for increased awareness and support for men's mental health, a subject that often carries some weight and deeply ingrained stigma, stemming from societal expectations and stereotypes about masculinity. Traditional norms of strength, stoicism, and emotional suppression can prevent men from seeking help. This stigma can be incredibly damaging, leading to feelings of shame and isolation for men who are struggling with their mental health.
By acknowledging and challenging these cultural myths and beliefs, and encouraging open conversations about mental health, we can create a more supportive environment where men feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.
The Facts
The suicide rates among men in 2021 were four times higher than the rate among women, with men making up 50% of the population, but accounting for nearly 80% of suicides, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Older men have a higher risk of suicide than younger men. According to the CDC, the suicide rate for adolescents and young adults is lower than the suicide rates for other age groups, but suicide is still the second-leading cause of death for young men.
High male suicide rates have also been linked to certain male-dominated, high-stress or isolated occupations There is a high rate of suicide among male veterans and active military members, as well as in other high stress, often violent or life-threatening work like firefighters, police, and first responders. Other occupations with high suicide rates include construction workers, mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction workers, truck drivers and warehouse workers, farmers, agriculture businesses, and even conservation professionals in forestry, fishing, and hunting.
Despite depression and suicide ranked as a leading cause of death among men, they are far less likely to seek mental health treatment than women. This is for many reasons, largely due to stigma around men’s mental health issues that are still prevalent in society today. Men and boys are often discouraged from expressing any emotions besides anger, discouraged from crying or being vulnerable, especially with other men. Expectations of always being strong and stoic, never complain and a “do it yourself” mindset that can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, increased mental illness, and suicidal ideation.
Signs to Look For
There are differences in the way mental health symptoms can present in men and women. Read these differences below or by downloading our resource.
- Depression: Women are more likely to experience traditional symptoms of depression such as sadness, worthlessness, and excessive guilt. Men may exhibit less recognized symptoms like irritability, aggression, and anger.
- Anxiety: Women are more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men, exhibiting symptoms such as excessive worry, rumination, and physical manifestations like tension and restlessness, men may display symptoms like irritability, substance abuse, and risk-taking behavior.
- Substance Abuse: Men are more likely than women to engage in substance abuse as a coping mechanism for underlying mental health issues. Substance abuse in men may be linked to depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders.
- Suicide: While women are more likely to attempt suicide, men are more likely to die by suicide. Men may be less likely to seek help or talk about their suicidal thoughts, and their suicide attempts may involve more lethal methods.
Physical symptoms of mental health issues can include:
- changes in appetite and energy
- new aches and pains, headaches
- digestive issues
- trouble sleeping
- sleeping more than usual
How to Help
Often, friends and family may be the first ones to notice that something is wrong but are unsure of how to help. Start by encouraging an open dialogue about mental health. Remind yourself and your loved one that it is okay to not be okay, and to challenge the stigmas around seeking help and openly talking about emotions.
As a first step, try to set up an appointment with a professional care provider. This may be difficult, especially if you live in a rural area with limited professionals, so other steps you and your loved one can take is encouraging a healthy lifestyle, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep.
Challenge stereotypes around you, and promote qualities of positive masculinity, such as courage, empathy, respect, and emotional intelligence. Shame can be a powerful force in preventing men from asking for what they need, so challenge the feelings of shame and weakness that can come with asking for help and support. Remember that it is an act of courage and bravery to ask for help and guidance from loved ones. Challenging myths and stigmas can save lives.
It's essential to recognize that everyone, regardless of gender, deserves to have their mental health concerns validated and addressed. Opening dialogue and promoting understanding and allowing men to define for themselves what it means to “be a man” can prevent tragedies like suicide and support men in leading healthier, happier lives.
Nexus Family Healing is a national nonprofit mental health organization that restores hope for thousands of children and families who come to us for community mental health services, foster care and adoption, and residential treatment. For over 50 years, our network of agencies has used innovative, personalized approaches to heal trauma, break cycles of harm, and reshape futures. We believe every child is worth it — and every family matters. Access more resources at nexusfamilyhealing.org/resources.