Men’s emotions have been shut away for generations due to society’s expectations. A lot of men grew up in families where emotions aren’t talked about, they’re told to “man up” or “stay strong” instead of being honest about how they feel. The concept of masculinity has been passed down through generations and plagues the mind of many men. Some men might push people away or turn to unhealthy coping methods because they don’t feel comfortable asking for help, like drugs and alcohol. Research by suggests that the percentage of adults seeking therapy decreases with age, falling to just 6% in patients aged 70-74. By reducing stigma, cost, and other barriers to receiving mental health services, men may be able to benefit from compassionate care. Common barriers to care include time. Especially for in person therapy, attending sessions while juggling work, care giving, and other daily responsibilities can be difficult. Stigma, fear of judgement from friends and colleagues can sometimes prevent people from seeking support. 

However, there is help out there. ANDYSMANCLUB is a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free to attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. “We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.  

“Thousands of guys have attended our groups, and our goal is to help one guy, to save one life.” Their website shows their individual journeys of men struggling with their mental health. One story said. “It was probably the toughest year of my life. I had times where I was signed off work, I couldn’t get out bed for days on end. I didn’t want to see my children I and I didn’t want them to see me in the way I was. I contemplated a lot of dark thoughts.”  

 The “male loneliness epidemic” describes the growing concern over increasing isolation and lack of deep, meaningful friendships among men. Men’s mental health has been widely misunderstood due to rigid societal expectations of masculinity, which promote stoicism and self-reliance while discouraging the expression of vulnerability. For example, some men may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like heavy drinking or being a workaholic instead of seeking emotional support. Therefore, society will label him as a heavy drinker or career minded overlooking the fact he may be struggling emotionally.  

If you’re reading this and struggle with mental health or have a male friend or family member also struggling, you should know that you’re not alone and it’s okay to feel like this but never okay to suffer in silence. Across Manchester there are spaces specifically for men to feel safe expressing themselves and having your voice heard in a judgement free zone. ANDYSMANCLUB has branches across the city centre, if you’re not comfortable talking in person helplines exist where you can get support from the comfort of your own home.  

Call Mind’s support line on 0300 102 1234. 

Call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 

Call the CALM on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day)