Men’s mental health: why checking in with the men in your life is so important

Key Points

• 25% of men have experienced a mental health disorder in their lifetimes
• Only a quarter of men say they would ask for professional help
• Reaching out to men about mental health is essential

Men’s mental health — it’s one of the most pressing issues facing our country, yet it can often feel like one of the least discussed.

The 2020 Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) report, Ten to Men: the Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health, shared some insight into why that may be.

The study found that up to 25% of men had experienced a mental health disorder at some time. But worryingly, only a quarter of the men surveyed said they would consider reaching out to a professional for help if they did experience such issues.

With the help of Psychologist Dr Moira Junge, in this article, we talk about mental health in men by looking at the factors that affect it and the meaningful ways we can offer support.

What factors can affect men’s mental health?

Many factors can impact our mental health and wellbeing, so checking in on the men around us needs to be a priority. And although there’s been a rise in advocacy groups and support programs available for men in more recent times, it’s a big issue that needs continuous monitoring.

According to Beyond Blue, these are some of the main issues associated with mental ill-health in men: 

• social isolation
• physical health problems
• relationship problems
• pregnancy and birth of a baby
• drug and alcohol use

Ever find yourself saying, “Why don’t guys remember things?” It’s a common joke in Western societies, however memory loss may be linked to declining mental health, so it’s not necessarily a laughing matter.

Psychologist Dr Moira Junge discusses why men — particularly Australian men — may feel more stigma and shame when asking for help.

“It’s been reinforced by generations of men who have been told not to cry or feel worried or down because it can seem like a sign of weakness,” she says. “I think it’s more than just a stereotype in Australia: I feel that men believe it really to be a true fact that it is a sign of weakness, which it clearly is not. ”

Feeling sad or down on a regular basis is a warning sign to watch out for in men

What signs should you look for?

It’s important to check in on our fathers, brothers, sons, friends and co-workers from time to time. We need to remain mindful of potential red flags and men’s health facts that can signify mental ill-health or other issues.

According to Men’sLine Australia and Dr Moira, these are some signs that we, and the men in our lives, need to be aware of.

Feeling sad or down, and often

An ongoing sadness or inability to pick yourself up emotionally, can be a marker of more significant mental health issues. 

Feeling nervous or worried

We all feel nervous and worry about things occasionally. But if you’re unable to shake the feeling, or if it starts to impact your life, it can indicate a bigger problem.

Experiencing mood swings

Dr Moira notes that sadness is not the only emotional change someone might show. “They might be irritable or angry instead.” 

Showing a lack of interest and withdrawing

“You might notice changes in energy — maybe someone who used to get a lot of stuff done suddenly doesn’t want to do much anymore,” says Dr Moira. A lack of interest now, not wanting to plan for the future or being socially withdrawn are all valid causes for concern. On the flip side, someone experiencing a massive burst of energy where there was none before may also be worth observing.

Feeling overwhelmed with stress

Stress impacts all of us and is a normal part of life. But if someone feels overwhelmed with work, finances, relationships or other issues, there could be more at play, potentially emotional or mental burnout.

Changing in eating habits

Someone experiencing mental health issues might begin to feel apathetic towards food, or they might have lost their appetite altogether. In this case, unexplained men’s weight loss could be a symptom to look out for. Likewise, eating more than usual, possibly for comfort, can also signify anxieties taking hold, according to Dr Moira.

Sleeping too much or too little

Sleep disturbances or significant differences in sleeping patterns can be other markers of mental ill-health. However, they can also be symptoms of various sleep-related conditions. As such, when it comes to understanding how to help men’s mental health, going beyond the symptoms to gain deeper insights is usually the best first step.

Using substances for stimulation

According to Dr Moira, an increase in substance use can be a tell-tale sign that something has changed. “If you feel they’re drinking too much or more than normal, that can be a problem.”

Shoulder-to-shoulder communication or engaging in activities together can make it easier for men to open up and share how they are feeling

How to help men’s mental health

Supporting men with their mental health includes developing effective strategies that work for men rather than using a blanket approach. So what exactly can we do to help men’s mental health? Here are some tips and strategies for giving them the support they need.

Modern approaches to men’s mental health

New approaches like shoulder-to-shoulder communication can help men feel more comfortable speaking with others. And to create a space that they feel comfortable in, try having discussions in a friendly environment or while other activities are taking place.

MensLine Australia takes a unique approach to their counselling services. Their messaging includes terms like ‘mental fitness’ rather than saying someone is suffering. And they choose to focus on discussing goals and solutions rather than exploring feelings, as the latter can sometimes cause discomfort.

Speak to the individual

Tailoring your approach to the person you’re speaking with can help. “There has to be a fair degree of nuance,” says Dr Moira. “You know that person and their preferences, so use that when offering them support.”

She also notes that framing it as a shared issue is essential. “Sometimes, it could be a couple or a family under strain. Let them know you’re struggling too and that you’re there with them every step of the way.”

Never stop trying

According to Dr Moira, it’s OK if someone doesn’t want to talk about their feelings immediately. “Sometimes it might be two years later that they get help. You must be patient, always suggesting things and gently nudging them towards seeking support.”

Get involved where you can

There are many support groups and events available that focus on men’s mental health.

When is men’s mental health month? It’s usually celebrated in November, coinciding with the Movember fundraiser. And men’s health week Australia? It usually takes place in the middle of June of each year.

Be gentle and supportive

Don’t give ultimatums. Don’t shame them into getting support. “Avoid threatening language or telling someone they need to get help — or else,” explains Dr Moira. Bring the discussion up gently and in a non-threatening way, and approach them with support and respect.

Know when to seek professional help

There are many options available for professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of mental ill-health. These include visiting your GP, consulting a mental health practitioner or approaching the many support lines and online counselling services offered throughout Australia.

Men who are struggling with mental health can take advantage of free helplines 

 Supporting good mental health in men

We all want the men in our lives to know their mental health is a priority. And the best place to start is by simply initiating the conversation. 

Seek advice or help from a healthcare professional if you or a man in your life is struggling mentally or emotionally. You can also contact various Australian mental health support services free of charge. Beyond Blue can be reached on 1300 22 46 36, and Lifeline is open 24 hours a day at 13 11 44.

Related:

• 9 ways to create a healthy mindset
• Positive affirmations for an anxious mind
• How to practice self-love (of the mental wellbeing kind)

Dr Moira Junge, a healthylife Advisory Board member, is a registered, practising health psychologist with the added specialty of sleep. She has been in private practice for over 20 years and is the CEO of the Sleep Health Foundation and was a founding member of the Behavioural Management of Sleep Disorders Committee within the Australasian Sleep Association (ASA). Dr Moira was also Chair of the ASA Insomnia and Sleep Health Council (2008-2015) and is a full member of the Australian Psychological Society.

Reviewed by healthylife health experts January 2023.