Men’s health, especially their mental health, often gets brushed under the carpet. We’ve all got that friend, brother, dad or uncle who insists they’re “fine” when they’re clearly not. But how do we break through that wall of silence?

men's health: Why It’s Crucial for Men to Talk about it

When it comes to men's health, men often play it tough. From ignoring that nagging pain to brushing off stress, there’s a long-standing idea that men should just power through.  But silence doesn’t equal strength. In fact, not talking about health, whether it's physical, mental or emotional, can lead to bigger problems down the road.

It’s time for men to recognise that seeking help is not a sign of weakness. Whether it’s noticing changes in mood, energy levels, or physical health, taking action early can prevent things from getting worse. Talking openly with a doctor, a friend, or even a partner is the first step to staying healthy.  When men acknowledge there’s an issue and seek advice, they can tackle it head-on, much like they would with anything else in life.

5 facts on men's health 

1. Men are less likely to seek help.  A 2019 study published in American Journal of Men's Health found that traditional masculine norms, such as the belief that men should be self-reliant, contribute to men being less likely to seek help for mental health issues compared to women(1)
2. Suicide rates are higher in men. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data consistently show that men die by suicide at rates 3-4 times higher than women globally(2)
3.  Depression in men can look different. A 2013 study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that men are more likely to exhibit anger, aggression, and risk-taking behaviors when experiencing depression, which can make it harder to identify(3)
4. Workplace stress hits hard. A survey conducted by Mind, a mental health charity, found that men are more likely to report that work-related stress negatively impacts their mental health, often leading to anxiety and burnout(4)
5. Social isolation is a growing concern. Research by the Movember Foundation highlights that men, particularly in mid-life, experience increased social isolation, which is associated with poorer mental health outcomes(5)

Changing the face of Men's Health

It’s Movember.  A campaign that runs every November to raise awareness of Men's Health.  Whilst we’re all used to seeing the classic moustache movement, this month is about more than just facial hair, it's about starting conversations that matter.

We need to break the stigma around men's health that says men should "tough it out." 

The reality is that everyone, regardless of gender, faces health challenges, and recognising them early on can make all the difference. By speaking up, men are not only taking control of their own wellbeing but setting an example for others to do the same. So, let’s encourage the men in our lives to talk about their health because real strength lies in taking care of yourself.

References and further reading

https://uk.movember.com/

1. Source: Mahalik JR, Burns SM, Syzdek M. Masculinity and perceived normative health behaviors as predictors of men's health behaviors. Social Science & Medicine. 2007.
2. Source: World Health Organization (2021), "Suicide worldwide in 2019."
3. Source: Martin LA, Neighbors HW, Griffith DM. The experience of symptoms of depression in men vs women. JAMA Psychiatry. 2013.
4. Source: Mind, "Workplace stress impacts mental health" (2018).
5. Source: Movember Foundation (2019), "Men's Health Report."