Men’s Mental Health: How you can help

Written By The Practice

Many men are taught from an early age to "push through" stress, keep emotions private, and solve problems on their own. While resilience is valuable, carrying every burden alone can make it harder to recognize when it's time to ask for help.

In 2024, only 10.9% of men reported receiving counseling or therapy from a mental health professional, compared to 16.9% of women.

If you're concerned about a husband, father, son, brother, or friend, you don't need to have all the answers. Simply showing up can make a meaningful difference.

Signs Someone May Be Struggling

  • Withdrawing from family or friends

  • Increased irritability or anger

  • Changes in sleep or appetite

  • Working excessively or avoiding activities they once enjoyed

  • Increased alcohol or substance use

  • Saying they feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or "fine" when their behavior suggests otherwise

How You Can Help

  • Start a conversation without judgment. A simple "I've noticed you don't seem like yourself lately. How are you doing?" can open the door.

  • Listen more than you talk. Resist the urge to immediately solve the problem.

  • Normalize therapy by reminding them that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

  • Offer practical support, such as helping find a therapist or going with them to their first appointment if they'd like.

  • Continue checking in. One conversation is helpful, but ongoing support often matters even more.

Therapy isn't only for moments of crisis. It can help men manage stress, improve relationships, process grief, navigate life transitions, and build healthier ways to cope before problems become overwhelming.

If someone you care about has been struggling, your encouragement could be the first step toward healing.

*information from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness

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