November is Men’s Mental Health Month: Breaking the Silence

Every year we mark Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month in November. It’s a time devoted to shining a light on the mental health challenges that many men face and the barriers that prevent them from getting help for their mental health.

The Facts and Why It Matters

• Men are statistically less likely than women to seek help for mental health.
• Many men face pressures – cultural, social, economic – that can affect their mental well-being.
• Opening up the conversation helps dismantle stigma and builds healthier communities.
• “This month is dedicated to raising awareness of the mental health challenges faced by and affecting men. Men are much less likely to access help with their mental health.”
  https://www.nptcgroup.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mens-mental-health-awareness-month.pdf
• “One of the key aims is to normalise conversations about mental health. By openly discussing struggles, sharing experiences, we can dismantle harmful stereotypes that equate emotional suppression with strength.”
  https://brag.co.uk/mens-mental-health-awareness-month

 

What does it look like in practice

During this awareness month you’ll see campaigns, events, and resources aimed at men’s mental health which can be both helpful and insightful for everyone:

• Organisations publishing data, hosting webinars or group sessions
• Media and workplaces encouraging men to talk about how they feel and to check in with friends and colleagues
• Specific messaging that men’s mental health is just as important as physical health.
  Research found that 40% of men had never spoken to anyone about their mental health, despite 77% saying they’d experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety or stress.
• Encouraging simple everyday actions: sharing “how are you really?”, making space for conversation, checking on someone.

 

Practical things men (and those around them) can do

For men themselves:

If you’re feeling low, stressed, or just not yourself: ask yourself why. Don’t just push through.

Start a conversation with someone: “I’ve been feeling…” or “It’s been a bit tough lately…” can open the door.

Be willing to seek help – speaking to a GP, counsellor or a support group is a strength, not a weakness.

Pay attention to lifestyle: sleep, physical activity, friendships or hobbies.

If you’re noticing anger, substance use, withdrawing from friends or family – these can be signs of deeper stress or distress.
https://www.amh.org.uk/focus-on-mens-mental-health-awareness-month

For friends, family, and colleagues:

Check in. A simple “How are you really?” can matter.

Offer a safe space: let them know you’re listening and you care.

Normalise talking about feelings – avoid phrases like “man up” or “you’re fine, just get on with it”.

Encourage professional support when needed.

Be aware of risk factors: high stress at work, financial pressures, isolation – these can amplify mental health difficulties in men.

 

Resources:

Samaritans – Free 24/7 emotional support: call 116 123
https://mens-mental-health.co.uk/find-support

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – For men, offering support and a helpline
https://ukmensday.org.uk/gethelp

Men’s Mental Health UK – Information, peer group listings and resources specific to men
https://mens-mental-health.co.uk/find-support

Peer support groups for men (walk-and-talk, sport-based, online) – see listings on Men’s Mental Health UK
https://mens-mental-health.co.uk/groups

Men’s Health Forum – Information and advocacy for men’s health in the UK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Men%27s_Health_Forum

If you prefer something local or more casual rather than formal therapy, peer groups can make a big difference. Men meeting men, sharing, not judging – sometimes that’s enough to shift the weight of what one carries.

At CAPITAL, we recognise the importance of mental well-being for men (and everyone) as part of our broader mission. We support initiatives and partner with organisations to ensure men aren’t forgotten, that stigma is challenged, and that conversations happen.

 

How you can help

Share this blog (or similar posts) in your networks to raise awareness

If you’re in a workplace: ask whether mental health support is available for men, and whether men’s voices are heard

If you’re part of a community group or charity: think about male-centred peer support or small group activities (walking, sport, sharing)

Consider volunteering your time or donating to help sustain men’s mental health initiatives via CAPITAL.

Men’s mental health is not just a niche issue, it affects many and the ripple effects go far into families, workplaces, and communities. Breaking the silence matters. Making it safe to talk, safe to ask for help, and safe to care – that’s a shift we can all contribute to.

If you’d like help with ideas for organising your own event for Men’s Mental Health Month, or co-hosting something via CAPITAL, get in touch!