It’s crucial that everyone’s mental health is prioritized, but focusing on mental health as a
universal issue can sometimes overlook the unique challenges faced by specific groups. One of
these groups that often goes underrepresented is men. Men’s mental health is still a largely
stigmatized topic in today’s society, which is why there are significant barriers preventing men
from seeking help or accessing services tailored to them.
One of the primary barriers is the generational “toxic masculinity” that has taught men to
suppress their emotions, “man up,” or cope with their mental health issues in unhealthy ways
(e.g., substance abuse). Additionally, men’s mental health has been given low priority in
research, and society has created an environment where it is difficult for men to support one
another or seek help.
How Does This Affect Men and Society?
Some may wonder how this impacts not only men but society as a whole. The evidence is clear.
For instance, an estimated 6 million men in Canada are affected by depression, according to the
Canadian Mental Health Association. However, this number may be misleading, as it does not
account for men who experience symptoms of depression but do not recognize them as such or
do not report their mental health struggles. There is also a significant lack of education on
mental health among men, which means many men don’t know that their mental health
struggles are connected to their physical symptoms like headaches, chronic pain, or sleep
disturbances.
Another growing concern is the “silent crisis” of suicide among men. As of 2022, men were 3.85
times more likely than women to die by suicide, according to the American Foundation for
Suicide Prevention. Additionally, 54.64% of male suicides were caused by firearms, highlighting
the gravity of this issue.
What Can We Do?
You might be wondering what you, as an individual, can do about this. First, you can start by
talking openly about mental health to the men in your life to help break down the stigma.
Regular check-ins with friends, family, or coworkers during tough times can remind men that
they aren’t alone, and that help is available when needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the men
in your life—whether it’s your father, brother, or friend—because a simple conversation can
make a world of difference.
At NWOCC, we strive to make our services accessible to everyone. We continue to push for a
more inclusive, supportive environment, not just for men, but for all individuals facing mental
health challenges. Reducing the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and raising awareness
about the signs and symptoms of mental health issues will ultimately help us decrease the
number of men suffering in silence.
Resources
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) source: Canadian Mental Health Association.
(2024). Men’s mental health. https://cmhato.org/understanding-mental-health/mens-
mental-health/
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) source: American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention. (2022). Suicide statistics. https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/
