Men Mental Health: It’s OK to Not Be OK

Men Mental Health: It’s OK to Not Be OK

It’s hard to believe 2025 has already reached its sixth month, which is June. Interestingly, June is a special month dedicated to a very important cause: Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is set aside to highlight the mental health challenges men face and to encourage them to seek help.

It’s an opportunity to break the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, promote open conversations, and provide resources for those in need. But why is this so important, and what can we do to support the men in our lives? 

The Importance of Men Mental Health 

Men’s mental health is a critical issue that often goes unnoticed. Unlike physical health, mental health isn’t always visible, making it easy to overlook. However, mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Since good mental health enables men to cope with stress, work productively, and contribute to their communities.

Unfortunately, men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues due to societal expectations and stigma. These hindrance can lead to serious consequences, including higher rates of suicide and substance abuse. 

According to International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) An estimated 703.000 people deceased by suicide worldwide each year. An individual suffering with depression is twenty times more likely to die by suicide than someone without the disorder.

Therefore, June is celebrated as a men’s mental health awareness for a greater good. Since focusing on men’s mental health helps address these challenges and encourages healthier and happier lives for men and their families. 

Everyone should remember that it’s okay to not be okay, and it’s completely normal. It’s not a burden or even a sign of weakness when someone you know currently does not feel like themselves and is looking for help or support. These are a sign of strength. 

How to Support Men’s Mental Health?

Encouraging open communication, fostering supportive relationships, and challenging stereotypes around emotional expression and relationships are vital steps in promoting men’s mental health and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

However, supporting men’s mental health requires both individual and collective efforts. Here are some ways you can make a difference:

1. Start the Conversation

Talking about mental health can be difficult, but it’s a crucial first step. Ask the men in your life how they’re doing, and truly listen to their responses.

2. Provide Resources

Share information about mental health resources, such as hotlines, therapy services, and support groups.

3. Offer Support

Sometimes, just being there for someone can make a huge impact. Let them know you’re there for them and that they don’t have to go through it alone.

4. Give Men’s Thoughtful Gift 

A thoughtful gift can absolutely help support men’s mental health, especially when it shows care, understanding, and encouragement. While a gift isn’t a substitute for professional support, it can be a meaningful way to express that someone is seen, valued, and not alone. 

You can give your husband, son, nephew or grandchild unlimited choices of gift. For example, a men’s jacket is always a great choice to express your gratitude by their presence. 

5. Educate Yourself about Mental Health

Take time to learn about common challenges like depression, anxiety, and burnout. The more you know about mental health, the better equipped you’ll be to help the men in your life. It can also help you to approach these potentially tricky situations with more empathy and confidence.

Self Care for Men That You or Your Loved Ones Should Know

Self-care is essential for maintaining mental health. Here are some strategies to encourage self care for men:

1. Exercise 

Physical activity is a great way to reduce stress and boost your mood. Find a workout you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.

2. Healthy Eating

A balanced diet can positively affect mental well-being. Focus on eating a variety of nutritious foods and staying well-hydrated.

3. Sleep

Getting enough rest is crucial for mental health. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night and stick to a consistent sleep schedule.

4. Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Consider activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

When to Seek Professional Help? 

If you or your loved ones show persistent symptoms of mental health issues that do not improve, this condition should be taken seriously. It is highly recommended to consult a mental health specialist or psychiatrist for proper assessment and treatment. 

Here are some situations where seeing a psychiatrist is strongly advised:

  • Difficulty managing emotions: Frequently feeling overwhelmed, easily angered, or deeply sad.
  • Struggles in relationships: Ongoing problems with communication or interactions with others.
  • Excessive stress or anxiety: When stress and anxiety interfere with daily activities and reduce your quality of life.
  • Experiencing trauma or loss: Recovering from traumatic events or the death of a loved one can be overwhelming and may require professional support.
  • Having self-harming thoughts or behaviors: This includes thoughts of hurting oneself or others, which should never be ignored.

Early treatment can help individuals recover from their condition, return to normal daily activities, and prevent the risk of serious and potentially dangerous mental health complications.

That was the explanation about why men’s mental health matters, and why it is okay to not be ok. Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is an important time to address the unique challenges men face regarding their mental well-being. 

By encouraging open conversations, challenging stigma, and offering support and resources, we can help improve men’s mental health and overall well-being, wherever they are. 

Since thoughtful gifts can also help support men’s mental health as a way to express that someone is valued, it can be your chance to support your loved ones. 

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