Silence has long been the enemy of men’s mental health. Societal pressures, stigma, and expectations have kept many men from openly discussing their struggles. This is where Men’s Mental Health Month comes into play, a critical period dedicated to raising awareness, fostering conversations, and encouraging men to seek the help they need.
Mental health is a significant concern for men, including issues like depression, anxiety, and stress, and deserves focused attention and early detection efforts.
Whether you’re a professional feeling weighed down by workplace pressures, a student navigating academic stress, or a father balancing family responsibilities, this blog will explore the unique mental health challenges men face at every stage of life. It is important to be aware of risk factors, signs, and symptoms to facilitate early intervention and support.
You’ll also discover practical ways to focus on and prioritize mental well-being, backed by insights from Dr. Matthew G. Mandelbaum, a licensed psychologist specializing in helping men achieve emotional resilience. This blog will provide information and resources to help men take action and access support.
Men’s Mental Health Month & Men’s Health Month | Understanding The Differences
What is Men’s Mental Health Month?
Men’s Mental Health Month is observed annually in June. Men’s Mental Health Awareness is dedicated to shining a light on the mental health challenges faced by men. This month aims to break down the stigma surrounding men seeking help for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress, while encouraging open conversations about emotional well-being. Support networks and the people around us play a vital role in supporting men’s mental health.
It is a time to promote resources, support networks, and education that empower men to prioritize their mental health. By raising awareness, the initiative helps create a culture where men feel reassured and supported in addressing their struggles, fostering healthier lives by learning to live well and prioritize mental health, and building stronger communities. People are encouraged to join together in support of men’s mental health.
Is National Men’s Health Month in June or November?
June is also officially National Men’s Health Month, a time to promote overall wellness, encourage regular check-ups, and highlight mental health as part of a holistic approach to men’s health.
November, meanwhile, is often associated with mental health through campaigns like Movember, explained later in the blog. Both months shine a spotlight on the importance of maintaining physical and emotional health for men worldwide, emphasizing the need to create a supportive world for men’s mental health.
June is Men’s Health Awareness Month
Men’s Health Month, focuses on all aspects of men’s health. Men’s Health Month is a national observance dedicated to raising awareness about important health issues facing men. Celebrated every June, this initiative encourages men to take a proactive approach to their well-being by focusing on preventative care, regular check-ups, and healthy lifestyle choices.
It provides an opportunity to educate men on common health risks, such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health problems, which are a significant problem for men, while equipping them with the tools and resources to manage these concerns effectively. By highlighting the importance of self-care and early detection, Men’s Health Month empowers men to make informed decisions, fostering longer, healthier lives.
Healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, eating right, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco, are emphasized as key strategies for disease prevention and overall wellness.
Movember (Another Men’s Health Awareness Month)
Movember, observed every November, is a global movement dedicated to raising awareness of critical men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. The campaign also addresses mental health disparities among vulnerable groups, such as gay and bisexual men.
The campaign is famously symbolized by the growing of mustaches, sparking conversations and encouraging men to take action for their health. Movember emphasizes early detection, education, and open dialogue, offering communities an opportunity to rally together in support of men everywhere.
By promoting proactive healthcare and reducing the stigma around sensitive topics, Movember inspires lasting change and empowers men to take charge of their well-being.
The Difference Between Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month and Men’s Health Awareness Month
While both Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month and Men’s Health Awareness Month are observed in June, each focuses on distinct aspects of men’s well-being.
Men’s Health Awareness Month takes a broad approach, covering both physical and mental health concerns, with an emphasis on preventative care, early detection, and lifestyle improvements to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. It encourages men to prioritize their overall health through education, regular check-ups, and proactive habits. The number of men affected by health issues, including mental illness, highlights the importance of these initiatives and the need for increased awareness and support.
On the other hand, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month zeroes in specifically on mental illness and emotional well-being. It aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues among men, such as anxiety, depression, and suicide, by promoting open conversations and providing resources for support and treatment.
This focused effort highlights the unique challenges men face in addressing their mental health, while fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. Together, these initiatives paint a comprehensive picture of men’s health and encourage action on all fronts.
Men’s Health and Mental Health is Important Year Round
Men’s health, particularly mental health, requires attention and care throughout the entire year—not just during awareness campaigns. Mental health challenges, such as stress, social isolation, anxiety, and depression, often develop over time and require ongoing support and management. It’s important to remind men that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a courageous step toward healing and self-improvement.
Maintaining open lines of communication with trusted friends, family, or professionals can foster a sense of connection and reduce feelings of isolation. Additionally, adopting healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and engaging in activities that promote mental health, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time outdoors, can improve overall mental well-being.
By prioritizing their health year-round, men can build resilience and take proactive steps toward a happier, more balanced life.
Common Mental Health Struggles in Men
What is the Biggest Mental Health Issue in Men?
Mental health struggles affect men in unique ways, often tied to societal expectations of strength and stoicism. Here are the most pressing issues men face:
- Depression and Anxiety: Over 6 million men in the United States experience depression annually, but fewer than half seek help. Many men also deal with anxiety disorders, often hidden behind the guise of being “fine.” Behavioral or emotional changes, such as withdrawal, irritability, or loss of interest, can be warning signs that a man is becoming depressed.
- Substance Abuse: Social expectations to “man up” frequently lead men to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. Substance abuse is a significant co-occurring issue with untreated mental health problems.
- Suicide: Tragically, men account for 75% of suicides globally. Men are more likely to die by suicide than women. Risk factors such as being depressed and substance abuse can increase the likelihood that men may commit suicide. Many men struggle in silence, feeling that speaking up about mental health issues reflects weakness rather than strength.
- Workplace Stress: The pressure to succeed in high-stake professions is often paired with burnout, isolation, and declining mental wellness. Unchecked workplace stress can worsen these conditions, making intervention crucial.
These statistics serve as an urgent call to action, not just for individuals facing these challenges but for families, communities, and organizations to actively support mental health initiatives.
Unique Challenges for Professionals and Executives
High-achieving professionals within business, tech, healthcare, law, and the arts are especially prone to burnout. Whether it’s the constant demand for excellence, endless meetings, or managing high-stakes projects, the mental toll is often significant. Chronic stress can lead to health issues, strained relationships, and reduced performance. There are several things professionals can do to support their mental health, including seeking support, practicing self-care, and accessing available resources.
Dr. Mandelbaum works extensively with professionals, offering tailored approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help them manage stress, enhance emotional regulation, and work towards a healthier life balance.
Support for University Students and Emerging Adults
Younger men face their own unique set of challenges, from balancing coursework and social commitments to preparing for an uncertain future. Academic struggles and the transition to adulthood are leading causes of anxiety and depression in this age group. It is important for students to reach out to a trusted friend or family member for support, as connecting with someone close can make a significant difference in coping with these challenges.
Dr. Mandelbaum’s personalized, DBT-based approach helps students build resilience and manage the pressures of young adulthood. By focusing on emotion regulation, mindfulness, and personal growth, he provides tools that lead to long-term well-being.
Mental Health Support for Sensitive Fathers
Fatherhood can be both rewarding and challenging, especially for sensitive fathers who might feel deeply connected to their emotions and the well-being of their family. Often, sensitive fathers may experience heightened stress or feelings of inadequacy as they balance parental responsibilities with their personal and professional lives.
Prioritizing mental health is essential in maintaining balance and fostering meaningful relationships. Strategies like open communication, seeking peer support from other fathers, and practicing self-compassion can prove invaluable. Dr. Mandelbaum emphasizes that sensitive fathers should not hesitate to seek professional guidance, as it can help them develop emotional resilience and establish a healthy foundation for both themselves and their families.
Overcoming Stigma and Seeking Help
Why Men Avoid Therapy
Men often avoid therapy due to societal stigmas. Notions like “real men don’t talk about their feelings” prevent many from seeking life-changing support. Additionally, the fear of appearing vulnerable can make men hesitant to open up, even to trusted family members and close friends. Men are encouraged to speak openly about their mental health struggles, as talking can help reduce stigma and promote support.
How to Overcome Stigma
To combat this, we must normalize conversations about mental health. Talking openly about emotions, sharing personal experiences, and supporting initiatives like Men’s Mental Health Month can pave the way for acceptance.
Signs It’s Time to Seek Help
- Persistent feelings of stress, sadness, or anger
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Reliance on alcohol or other substances
- Thoughts of self-harm or feelings of hopelessness
If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s time to consider professional support.
Dr. Matthew G. Mandelbaum’s Approach
Dr. Mandelbaum brings over 20 years of experience to his practice, specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and trauma-informed care. His method is rooted in empathy and personalization, ensuring that every client receives the tools and guidance needed for their unique circumstances.
Services Offered
- Telepsychology Sessions: Access therapy from anywhere with convenient virtual sessions.
- Stress Management & Emotional Regulation: Learn techniques to handle daily stress and improve well-being.
- DBT & Trauma-Informed Care: Develop skills for mindfulness, resilience, and regaining control over your emotional life.
Whether you’re a high-pressure professional or a young adult navigating life’s challenges, Dr. Mandelbaum provides compassionate care to help you thrive.
Photo by Meilisa Dwi Nurdiyanti on Unsplash
Prioritize Mental Health During Men’s Mental Health Month
Taking the first step toward better mental health requires courage. Remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but of strength. During Men’s Mental Health Month, honor yourself by reaching out for support, speaking openly, and prioritizing well-being.
If you’re ready to improve your mental health and build resilience, Groundbreaker Therapy is here to help. Learn more about Dr. Mandelbaum’s personalized services tailored to support your unique needs. Start your transformation today.
Mental Health Resources for Men
Prioritizing mental health is essential, and there are numerous resources available specifically designed to support men on their wellness journeys. Below is a curated list of trusted organizations and tools to help you take that next step:
- Movember Foundation – Dedicated to tackling mental health issues, suicide prevention, and more for men through innovative programs and initiatives.
- Man Therapy – A unique platform blending humor and resources to address men’s mental health.
- HeadsUpGuys – Offers practical advice and support for men dealing with depression.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call or text 988 for immediate, confidential support available 24/7.
- Men’s Health Network – Promotes mental and physical well-being tailored for men.
- Project Helping – Combines mental wellness with volunteer opportunities to promote healing.
- The Jed Foundation – Focused on emotional health and suicide prevention among young men and teens.
- The Veterans Crisis Line – Support specifically tailored to veterans, available 24/7.
- MindWise Innovations – Tools and assessments aimed at mental health awareness and action.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Provides resources, education, and support groups for a variety of mental health concerns.
- Crisis Text Line – A text-based service offering 24/7 support by texting HOME to 741741.
Each of these resources creates a safe and supportive space to help you or a loved one address mental health concerns and build resilience. Explore what resonates most with your needs, and never hesitate to reach out.