Men’s mental health: talk the talk or walk the walk?

Men’s mental health issues

When people hear the term mental health problems, they often think about stress, depression or anxiety — issues that are statistically more common among women [2]. However, studies show a different pattern among men. In some Western countries, men account for about 75% of deaths by suicide and are significantly more likely to experience substance use disorders and impulse control problems. Internalising symptoms—such as sadness, hopelessness, or fear—may be minimised or overlooked by men themselves and by those around them [3].

One reason for this difference lies in how men tend to cope with distress. Research shows that, on average, men are more likely to use problem-focused and avoidant coping strategies—such as working harder, distracting themselves, or using substances [4, 5]. Emotional distress often remains hidden behind externalising behaviours like anger, withdrawal, or risk-taking [3].

As these behaviours are often framed as social problems rather than symptoms of underlying distress, many struggles stay invisible. It is therefore unsurprising that men are less likely to seek professional mental health support.

Is there any explanation?

Societal norms around masculinity partly explain these patterns. Traits like toughness, emotional control, and independence are often encouraged in men from an early age. While undeniably valuable in certain contexts, they can make it harder to recognise when deeper support is needed [3].

Despite growing awareness, this also helps explain why barriers remain for men to reach out. Many men believe they should handle problems alone, worry about judgement, or feel that mental health services are not tailored to their needs [6].

For example, in many therapeutic models there is an emphasis on expressing emotions. Whilst this can be highly effective, it may feel alien for those who have been encouraged to value stoicism and control.

Turning men’s belief system upside down to help them?

Should we then turn men’s entire belief system upside down and strive towards motivating men to constantly talk about their problems, fully disclose their emotions and immediately run to a psychologist? Of course not.

Supporting men’s mental health requires acknowledging their differences and offering approaches that respect varied ways of coping. First steps may involve physical activity, goal setting, structured routines, or gradually developing emotional awareness. Building flexibility and resilience on one’s own terms — rather than forcing a particular model of expression — is key to sustainable wellbeing. Taking action, solving problems, and restoring a sense of control can naturally strengthen confidence and contribute to improved mental health. Social support can play a role, not necessarily by requiring full emotional disclosure, but by offering understanding, encouragement, and opportunities to stay engaged in constructive coping strategies [7].

To conclude, every individual is unique, and there is no single solution that works for everyone. People are remarkably resilient, and many find their own ways to regain balance after difficult periods. Hopefully, it is clear that given advice such as “just talk about it” does not do justice to the complexity of reality. Still, if struggles persist and daily functioning remains impaired, reaching out for support—whether from friends, family, or a professional—can make a meaningful difference.

Author: Stef Van Puyenbroeck

Disclaimer: this site cannot and doesn’t contain medical/ health advice. The medical/ health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. 

References

[1]  World Health Organization. (2022). Mental health: Strengthening our response. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response

[2] Valencia-Florez, K. B., Sánchez-Castillo, H., Vázquez, P., Zarate, P., & Paz, D. B. (2023). Stress, a brief update. International Journal of Psychological Research, 16(2), 105–121. https://doi.org/10.21500/20112084.5815

[3] Affleck, W., Carmichael, M., & Whitley, R. (2018). Men’s mental health: Social determinants and implications for services. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 63(9), 581–589. https://doi.org/10.1177/0706743718762388

[4] Matud, M. P. (2004). Gender differences in stress and coping styles. Personality and Individual Differences, 37(7), 1401–1415. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2004.01.010

[5] Graves, B. S., Hall, M. E., Dias-Karch, C., Haischer, M. H., & Apter, C. (2021). Gender differences in perceived stress and coping among college students: A cross-sectional study. PLOS ONE, 16(8), e0255634. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0255634

[6] Seidler, Z. E., Dawes, A. J., Rice, S. M., Oliffe, J. L., & Dhillon, H. M. (2020). What gets in the way? Men’s perspectives of barriers to mental health services. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 66(2), 105–110. https://doi.org/10.1177/0020764019896287

[7] Sharp, P., Oliffe, J. L., Kealy, D., Rice, S. M., Seidler, Z. E., & Ogrodniczuk, J. S. (2023). Social support buffers young men’s resilient coping to psychological distress. Early Intervention in Psychiatry, 17(8), 784–791. https://doi.org/10.1111/eip.13371