Why are men still struggling to speak up?

Around 75% of suicide deaths in the UK are men as it is the leading cause of death for men under fifty.

This means males are three times more likely to die by suicide than females.

In the Uk today, millions of people struggle with their mental health daily with one in four adults and one in ten children experiencing mental illness, often presenting as anxiety or depression.

However, men being open about their mental health is not an everyday experience due to masculinity norms, stigma, and the pressure to “stay strong.”

Despite increased awareness around men’s mental health in recent years, men remain significantly less likely to seek help than women.

Options for therapy and access to support are available however only around 36-37% therapy referrals are men.

This is because one in four men would not consider professional help because they have fears of judgement as a knock-on effect of social expectations.

This highlights a major gap in access and engagement.

Many experts say that the issue is not a lack of suffering but a lack of openness.

Society’s views around masculinity continue to discourage expressions of emotion, leaving many men feeling the pressure to present themselves as independent and the one in control at all times.

A spokesperson from Mind says “from a young age, boys are often taught to supress their emotions” – meaning many young boys feel they need to bottle up their emotions and keep them to themselves.

Although the awareness around men’s mental health has increased in many years, experts warn that real progress depends on action and not just conversation.

Lots of charities such as Samaritans and Mind continue to urge those who are struggling to seek support as help is important, available, and confidential.

Figures highlight the scale of the problem but now the responsibility lives with our society today to challenge and break down outdated stereotypes and encourage openness.