How can we improve men’s mental health?
The phrase ‘man up’ has long been used when discussing hardship and problem-solving.
It denotes being strong, bold, brave and dealing with difficulties ‘like a man.’
‘Men are often expected to be strong, stoic, and unemotional, which can create a barrier for them to express their feelings or seek help when they are struggling’ states UK charity Men’s Minds Matter. They have presented research into gender ideologies and societal theories, believing the differences between gender stereotypes have had a major impact on the male to female suicide ratio.
A report by Spectrum News 1 last week revealed that ‘men make up 80% of all suicides in the U.S’
Meanwhile the Samaritans reported that in the UK, males remain up to three times more likely to take their own lives than females, with men aged 30-45 being the most vulnerable.
Spectrum’s article continues: ‘men struggling (mentally) is viewed as a failure, as if they are not doing something right or they have a character flaw.’
It’s stigmatising perspectives like this that make men less likely to seek mental health support than women.
Studies carried out by the Mental Health Foundation reveal that men are less likely to access psychological therapies and mental health services compared to their female counterparts. For example, in the UK, only 36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies are for men. Societal expectations, gender stereotypes and cultural influences are major contributing factors.
Masculinity and Dominant Male Norms
Men’s Minds Matter have coined the term Dominant Masculine Norm to encompass common social expectations on men. These include providing for others, having physical strength, emotional toughness, self-reliance, competitiveness, risk taking, being a protector, possessing toughness and aggression, winning, displaying dominance (including sexual), virility, control, power, heroism, honour and courage.
They state: ‘Whilst there are many benefits and positives associated with these norms and values they can also be very detrimental and harmful for men. More specifically they are directly related to poorer health outcomes observed in men. They can also prevent the healthy expression of qualities such as emotional and physical vulnerability.’
The recent hugely successful Netflix drama Adolescence has shone a stark light on toxic masculinity and how it is permeating to young males. The series homes in on issues such as self-esteem, social rejection and the need for validation that men so often seek.
Former England football manager Gareth Southgate delivered the prestigious Richard Dimbleby Lecture last month and used the opportunity to express his concern that “callous, manipulative and toxic influencers” have become the most prominent role models for boys and young men, leading to a crisis in mental health.’
He pointed to the malign influence of social media and online gaming, stating that these “willingly trick young men into believing that success is measured by money or dominance, never showing emotion, and that the world — including women — is against them”.
The rise of such norms are having a huge impact on our young and adult men.
Men’s Mental Health in the workplace
‘Breaking free from rigid gender stereotypes is essential for promoting a healthier, more inclusive work environment.’ – Fusion OH.
‘When it comes to men’s mental health in the workplace, societal expectations and masculinity norms can play a significant role,’ states research recently carried out by UK Occupation Health provider Fusion OH.
‘Men are often expected to be strong, stoic, and unemotional, which can create a barrier for them to express their feelings or seek help when they are struggling.
‘Early intervention and prevention strategies are vital in addressing men’s mental health in the workplace,’ continue Fusion OH. ‘Proactive measures such as stress management programmes, resilience training, and promoting work-life balance can help prevent the onset of mental health issues and reduce the risk of burnout.’
Programmes such as HeadClear can offer employers unique insights into their male employees welfare, spot early trends and act as a prompt for vital wellbeing conversations. As we know, feeling unable to speak out due to stigma or the impression of appearing ‘less-masculine’ can be hugely isolating, leading to feelings of hopelessness and depression.
So what can be done? How can we speak to men about mental health?
Be empathetic: acknowledge their struggles without belittling or minimising them
Listen: let them express themselves without interruption or judgment
Be supportive: encourage them to seek help, whether that’s therapy, talking to a friend, or using self-care strategies
Normalise the conversation: make mental health a regular part of your discussions, just like any other aspect of wellbeing
By creating a safe, non-judgmental space for men to express themselves, we can help break down the barriers and stigmas that often keep them from seeking support.
What tools and services are out there to help men experiencing mental health challenges?
MANUP? is a leading men’s mental health charity in the UK, pioneering research into the stigma around the subject and reducing the high rates of male suicide. They offer resources on their website as well as therapy sessions, meet ups and online webinars with specialists in this field.
They say: ‘As a society, we must move beyond simply encouraging men to talk and start actively listening, ensuring the proper support is there when they do. By continuing to fund this ground-breaking research, MANUP? is leading the way in transforming the conversation around male mental health.’
Mental Health UK has specific resources and specialist teams to support men with workplace mental difficulties.
StrongMen is the largest organisation set up to support men with grief, bereavement and the impact that has on their mental wellbeing.
Mens Health have dedicated articles and resources on the Head Strong section of their website.
Andys Mans Club and ManHealth are two charitable organisations also on a mission to reduce male suicide rates and offers face-to-face and online support groups for men in various across the UK.
Shout also advocates for men’s mental wellbeing offering a range of services, most notable their text-chat provision.
Mens Minds Matter has a range of resources, research and signposts to help providers specifically for males.
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