Three out of four suicides are men. Let that sink in. While society pushes the narrative that men should be stoic and unshakable, the truth is far darker—we’re in the middle of a silent crisis. Men’s Mental Health Month (June) isn’t just another awareness campaign. It’s a lifeline.
The numbers don’t lie: men are less likely to seek help, more likely to self-medicate with alcohol, and far more likely to die by suicide than women. Why? Because from childhood, boys are taught that vulnerability equals weakness. But here’s the reality—ignoring emotions doesn’t make them disappear. It bottles them up until they explode.
This article cuts through the noise. No vague platitudes. No empty “it’s okay to not be okay” messages. Instead, we’re diving into real solutions—how tech is making therapy more accessible, why workplace mental health policies fail men, and exactly what to say to someone who’s struggling. Because mental health isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s human. And it’s time we started acting like it.
1. Why Men’s Mental Health Month Matters
Men have particular mental health issues, which is why Men’s Mental Health Month is important. Men are more likely to die by suicide, while women are more likely to receive a depression diagnosis. This startling fact demonstrates the severity of the issue. Many men suffer alone because they’ve been taught that showing emotion is weak.
Cultural expectations play a huge role. Boys are taught things like “man up” and “big boys don’t cry” from an early age. They carry these beliefs into adulthood. Men consequently frequently neglect their mental health until it is too late. Instead of seeking assistance, they may resort to using drugs or alcohol. Some become workaholics to avoid dealing with their feelings.
The workplace makes things worse in many cases. Men frequently believe that taking time off for mental health issues will make them appear weak. Discussing emotions could be viewed as unprofessional in hazardous occupations like construction or the military. This creates a perfect storm where men suffer in silence.
Technology offers some hope though. Mental health apps designed for men are becoming more common. These steer clear of “therapy talk” that could turn off some men and instead employ manly motifs. For instance, male-specific guided meditations are now available on applications like Calm and Headspace. Some even use the term “mental fitness” to refer to mental wellness in order to appeal to guys.
2. How Technology Helps Men’s Mental Health
Technology is changing how men approach mental health. Many men find that using apps is more comfortable than speaking with a therapist in person. Some of the stigma associated with seeking help is eliminated by digital tools. Compared to traditional therapy, they are generally less scary, private, and accessible at any time.
Teletherapy has been a game changer. Platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace let men message therapists from their phones. This works well for men who hate phone calls or office visits. Some services even match men with male therapists who understand their perspective. Research shows men are more likely to stick with therapy when it’s digital.
Wearable tech helps too. Devices like Fitbits and Apple Watches can track stress levels through heart rate. They alert users when they’re getting too stressed. This gives men concrete data about their mental state, which many find easier to accept than emotional talk. Some apps even use this data to suggest when to take a break or practice breathing exercises.
AI chatbots provide another option. Woebot and Wysa offer cognitive behavioral therapy techniques through text. These bots use humor and direct language that appeals to many men. They’re available 24/7, which helps during late-night crises. While not a replacement for human help, they’re a good first step for men reluctant to seek treatment.
3 How to Support Men During This Month
Supporting men’s mental health starts with small actions anyone can take. First, check on the men in your life. Ask how they’re really doing, not just “how’s it going?” Give them time to answer. Many men aren’t used to being asked this question seriously.
Educate yourself about male-specific mental health signs. Men might not say they’re sad. Instead, they may complain about headaches, anger, or trouble sleeping. Some become reckless or work constantly. Knowing these signs helps you recognize when someone’s struggling.
Create safe spaces for conversation. Take a stroll or watch sports together. When working side by side instead of in person, many men find it simpler to converse. Refrain from criticizing their emotions or telling them to “cheer up.”
Share resources discreetly. If a man isn’t ready to talk, send him links to mental health websites or apps. The Movember website has great articles written for men. You could also share stories of famous men who’ve struggled with mental health. This helps normalize the issue.
4. Resources and How to Get Involved
Many excellent resources exist for men’s mental health. The Movember Foundation runs campaigns year-round. Their website offers practical tips and stories from real men. They also fund research into male-specific mental health treatments.
Crisis lines are available 24/7. In the U.S., men can call or text 988 for immediate help. The Veterans Crisis Line serves former military members. Both services understand men’s unique challenges and provide judgment-free support.
Local events happen throughout June. Look for walks, talks, or fundraisers in your area. Many barbershops now train stylists in mental health first aid. These “barber talks” give men a comfortable place to open up while getting a haircut.
Sharing information on social media is one way you can assist. To raise awareness, use hashtags such as #MensMentalHealthMonth. Think about sharing your own tale if you’re a man. Someone else could be moved to seek assistance by your bravery. Even small actions make a difference during Men’s Mental Health Month.
Conclusion:
Change doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we stop whispering about men’s mental health and start shouting. Men’s Mental Health Month is our chance to rewrite the script—to replace “man up” with “speak up.”
The tools are here. The resources exist. Now it’s on us to use them. Share this article. Check on your dad, your brother, your friend who always says “I’m fine.” Challenge the stereotypes when you hear them. And if you’re a man struggling in silence? Take one small step today—text a friend, download a mental health app, or just admit, out loud, that this is hard.
Silence isn’t strength. Strength is asking for help when you need it. This June, let’s make that message impossible to ignore.
FAQs
1. Is there a mental health month for men?
Yes! Every June, Men’s Mental Health Month is marked to promote understanding of the specific mental health challenges that men face. Movember in November encompasses general health issues like prostate cancer, whereas June concentrates on mental health, stigma, suicide prevention, and, uniquely, active engagement.
2. What color is the men’s mental health ribbon?
It is important to note that the color used for men’s mental health awareness campaigns is green which signifies growth, hope, silence breaking, and movement forward. Context is critical as some campaigns opt for blue or teal.
3. Why is men’s mental health month often ignored?
Quite unfortunately, some societal stereotypes treat mental health as a “weakness” of men, which is deeply problematic. Reporting and attention to the issue is nearly nonexistent because the expression of emotion is governed by toxic masculinity standards. Furthermore, men’s mental health resources are significantly underfunded and lobbied for, despite their higher rates of suicide compared to women.
4. Is men’s health month in June or November?
The month of June focuses on Men’s Mental Health. November highlights their physical health concerns like prostate cancer. Both matter, but June’s focus is purely psychological—addressing depression, anxiety, and barriers to treatment.
5. Is there a women’s mental health month?
Yes! Men’s matters precede Women’s Mental Health Month which takes place in May and addresses concerns such as postpartum depression and trauma related to one’s gender. While men’s mental health needs just as much attention, it is certainly less prioritized.
6. When is men’s mental health month in 2025?
Starting June 1, 2025 Men’s Mental Health Month will take place until the end of June. Mark your calendar to call attention, facilitate discussion, share tools, or support initiatives such as Men’s Health Network or Movember.
