June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on an often overlooked issue: the mental well-being of men. Despite the progress made in mental health advocacy, men still face significant barriers in acknowledging and addressing their mental health needs. According to the World Health Organisation, men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, often due to societal expectations and stigma.

Understanding Men's Mental Health

Men are just as likely as women to experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, they are less likely to talk about their feelings or seek professional help. Societal expectations of toughness and self-reliance often prevent men from expressing vulnerability. This silence can lead to severe consequences, including substance abuse and even suicide.

The Impact of Ignoring Mental Health

Ignoring mental health issues can have devastating effects. Men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women, a statistic that underscores the urgent need for awareness and intervention. Untreated mental health issues can lead to a downward spiral, affecting not only the individual but also their loved ones and community.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

It's essential to recognise the signs of mental health struggles in men, which can include:

• Persistent sadness or irritability
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Significant changes in sleep or appetite
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Withdrawal from friends and family

Personal Story: John's Journey

John, a 35-year-old father of two, appeared to have it all together—a stable job, a loving family, and a wide circle of friends. However, beneath the surface, he was grappling with severe depression. For years, John felt the weight of societal expectations pressing down on him, believing that seeking help would be a sign of weakness. His condition worsened until one day, he confided in a close friend who encouraged him to seek professional help. With therapy and support, John began to understand and manage his depression. His journey highlights the critical importance of recognising the signs of mental health issues and the profound impact that seeking help can have on one's life. John's story is a powerful reminder that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Personal stories, like that of John, who battled depression silently for years before seeking help, highlight the importance of early recognition and intervention.

Breaking the Stigma

Changing societal perceptions is key to improving men's mental health. Campaigns like Movember and influential figures openly discussing their mental health challenges are paving the way for a more accepting environment. Talking about mental health should be normalised, not stigmatised. Think about whether there are any mental health initiatives in your organisation focused around men's mental health - if not, perhaps you can be the start of something meaningful that was missing before! It can be tough to get men to open up and confide, but once the ball gets rolling, we quickly learn that all of us have many feelings and emotions to deal with that are better out than in.

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is struggling, there are many avenues for support. Therapy, support groups, and helplines provide crucial assistance.

Supporting a friend or family member can make a significant difference. Listening without judgement and encouraging professional help are essential steps.

Please remember that if you are in crisis, and need to speak to someone urgently, you can call Samaritans on 116 123 or text the word 'SHOUT' to 85258. Both services are available 24/7 and 365 days of the year.

Self-Care and Prevention Strategies

Maintaining mental well-being involves self-care and prevention strategies:

• Regular physical activity
• Pursuing hobbies and interests
• Building and maintaining social connections
• Practising mindfulness and stress reduction techniques
• Reflective exercises and tools where you assess what is serving your happiness and what is detracting from it

Incorporating these practices into daily life can help prevent mental health issues and promote overall well-being.

Call to action:

This month, take the time to talk about mental health with the men in your life. Your support could be life-changing.

Men's Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of addressing mental health openly and without stigma. By recognising the signs, offering support, and promoting self-care, we can create a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone. Let's break the silence and take action towards better mental health for all.