Talking it out: How men can prioritise their mental wellbeing

Men are less likely to talk about their mental health than women, and this silence can have serious consequences. This blog post will explore the reasons behind this silence, the impact it has on men's wellbeing, and what can be done to create a more open and supportive environment for men to talk about mental health.

Nearly 1 in 3 men suffer from anxiety

Nearly a third of men reported experiencing high anxiety according to the Mental Health Foundation's 2022-2023 survey¹. This number is particularly concerning because men are also more likely to die by suicide than women. Several factors contribute to this silence around men's mental health. Social stigma around masculinity can be a powerful force, making men feel pressured to suppress their emotions and maintain a facade of strength. Additionally, a lack of awareness about mental health conditions, or difficulty recognising their own struggles, can prevent men from seeking help. Finally, some men might simply lack the vocabulary to express their feelings comfortably and authentically.

Despite experiencing anxiety, depression or stress (77% according to a recent Priory Group study), many men in the UK (40%) struggle to prioritise their mental health and keep their struggle private².

Silence surrounding their emotions creates a vicious cycle for men. The longer they bottle things up, the harder it becomes to break free. Shame creeps in, worsening their emotional state. For men with existing mental health issues like anxiety or depression, this silence can intensify those conditions, potentially leading to long-term struggles.

Taking the first step

While prioritising your mental health for the first time can feel daunting, it's a crucial step towards a happier and healthier you. Here's how men can break the cycle of silence and take charge:

• Normalise the conversation and find a safe space to talk: Share your experiences and talk openly with friends, family, and colleagues. This can encourage others to do the same and show them it's okay to talk about mental health. Having someone you trust to confide in is key. This could be a therapist, counsellor, friend, or someone in an online support group.
• Embrace self-care and seek professional help: Participate in activities that promote mental health. This can include exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies you enjoy. True strength lies in acknowledging your struggles and taking steps to address them. Don't be afraid to express your emotions – it's a sign of strength, not weakness. Just like physical health, mental health conditions are treatable. Therapists and counsellors can provide valuable support and guidance.

The business case for men’s mental health

Early intervention is key to managing anxiety, especially for men who may be hesitant to seek help. This means creating workplaces that encourage open communication about mental health. Leaders can set the tone for acceptable behaviour within a workplace. If a male leader openly discusses his own challenges or expresses emotions, it can normalise seeking help and emotional vulnerability for other men. Organisations can also create a work environment that prioritises wellbeing. This can involve offering flexible work arrangements, encouraging breaks, and implementing clear boundaries to prevent burnout. These actions can significantly reduce stress and anxiety for their male employees.

Investing in your employees' mental health isn't just the right thing to do, it's good for business. A happier, healthier workforce leads to increased productivity, improved morale, and reduced absenteeism. BHSF can be a valuable partner in supporting your employees' mental wellbeing. We offer a comprehensive suite of resources designed to empower your team to effectively manage mental health challenges.

Our comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, BHSF RISE, enables your employees to be fast-tracked through to a qualified, accredited counsellor. This programme bypasses wait times, ensuring your employees can connect with a therapist quickly and receive the support they need. These experts will work with each individual to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to their specific needs, helping them address their unique challenges and get back on track. Our mental health support training courses provide valuable education and resources. These courses will help your employees identify their triggers, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and learn how to manage their symptoms effectively. By empowering your team with these skills, you can create a more resilient workforce and foster a culture of mental wellbeing.

You are not alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, we can help.

Sources:

¹Mental Health Foundation, “Anxiety: Statistics”, https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/anxiety-statistics#:~:text=In%202022%2F23%2C%20an%20average,reported%20high%20levels%20of

%20anxiety&text=Compared%20to%20data%20from%202012,reporting%20high%20levels%20of%20anxiety

²Priory Group, “Men’s mental health: 40% of men won’t talk to anyone about their mental health”, https://www.priorygroup.com/blog/40-of-men-wont-talk-to-anyone-about-their-mental-health