Men's Mental Health Awareness Month: Breaking the Silence

June 11, 2024|Behavioral Health, Mental Health

June has arrived, and with it comes an important, yet often overlooked observance: Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues affecting men, highlighting the importance of mental well-being, and encouraging open conversations about mental health struggles. Despite progress in destigmatizing mental health discussions, men's mental health remains a topic shrouded in silence and misunderstanding. 

It's time we break this silence.

Men’s mental health is a critical issue that doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men are statistically more likely to die by suicide than women. In the United States, men account for nearly 80% of all suicides, with a rate of approximately 22.8 per 100,000 compared to 5.7 per 100,000 for women​ (CDC)​. Among racial and ethnic groups, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native men have the highest suicide rates, followed by non-Hispanic White men​ (CDC)​.

For men of color, the situation is particularly alarming. Black adolescents have seen a dramatic increase in suicide rates, rising 144% between 2007 and 2020. This trend has continued into adulthood, with suicide rates for Black men increasing by about 2% annually since the Great Recession​ (Pew Trusts)​​ (University of Colorado Boulder)​. Hispanic and Asian American men also face rising rates, though their numbers are somewhat lower compared to other groups​ (CDC)​.

However, young men are not exempt – suicide is the second leading cause of death among men aged 15-34. For older men, particularly those over 65, depression is often underdiagnosed, leading to higher rates of suicide in this age group as well. These figures highlight the pervasive and critical nature of mental health struggles among men across the lifespan.

The reasons behind these figures are complex and multifaceted, including societal expectations, reluctance to seek help, and lack of open communication about emotions and mental health.

Changing the narrative around men’s mental health requires collective effort and empathy. Here are some ways we can help the men in our lives feel comfortable opening up about their mental health:

1. Foster Open Conversations

Creating a safe space for men to talk about their feelings is crucial. Encourage open, honest conversations about mental health. Let the men in your life know that it's okay to express vulnerability and that their feelings are valid.

2. Educate and Raise Awareness

Promote mental health education that addresses the specific needs of men. Understanding the signs of mental health issues and knowing how to support someone who is struggling can make a significant difference. According to Mental Health America, 6 million men are affected by depression each year, but they are less likely to seek treatment than women.

3. Challenge Stereotypes

Challenge and break down harmful stereotypes about masculinity. Emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Normalize the idea that mental health care is essential for everyone, regardless of gender.

4. Provide Support and Resources

Ensure that the men in your life have access to mental health resources. This can include professional counseling, support groups, and online resources tailored to men’s mental health. Encourage them to seek professional help if they are struggling. Data from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that only about 35% of men with mental health disorders receive treatment, compared to 49% of women.

5. Be a Role Model

Lead by example. Show that it’s okay to talk about your own mental health and seek help when needed. Your openness can inspire others to do the same.

6. Check-In Regularly

Make a habit of checking in on the mental well-being of your male friends and family members. Regular, genuine check-ins can make a big difference and show that you care.

Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is a vital opportunity to shine a light on the often-overlooked issue of men’s mental health. By fostering open conversations, challenging stereotypes, and providing support, we can help create an environment where men feel comfortable seeking help and expressing their emotions. Remember, mental health affects everyone, and breaking the silence can save lives. Let’s commit to being part of the solution and support the mental well-being of the men in our lives.

In the words of Fred Rogers, “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.” Let’s make men’s mental health mentionable, manageable, and most importantly, a priority.