Men's Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
Every day in the UK, around 13 men take their own lives. That's one man every two hours. Behind each statistic is a son, a father, a brother, a friend who felt he couldn't reach out for help. This Men's Health Month, it's time to break the silence.
The Hidden Crisis
Three quarters of registered suicide deaths in England and Wales are among men. The male suicide rate is now at its highest level since 2000. Yet despite these stark figures, men remain far less likely than women to seek help for mental health problems. Too many suffer in silence, believing they must cope alone or that asking for support is somehow a sign of weakness.
The truth is quite the opposite. Recognising when you're struggling and reaching out takes real courage.
Why Men Don't Ask for Help
There are complex reasons why men find it difficult to open up about their mental health. Traditional expectations about masculinity can make vulnerability feel uncomfortable or even impossible. Many men worry about appearing weak or losing respect if they admit they're not coping.
Sometimes, men would rather not talk about their feelings and instead may turn to other, potentially destructive ways of coping. Their reluctance can be down to not wanting to show themselves as vulnerable.
This reluctance to seek help means countless cases of depression in men go undiagnosed and untreated, often with devastating consequences.
Depression Looks Different in Men
Another barrier to getting help is that men often don't recognise they're experiencing depression. Whilst sadness and loss of interest are common symptoms, depression in men frequently manifests differently.
Rather than feeling low, men may experience anger, irritability and frustration. They might throw themselves into work, withdraw from relationships, or turn to alcohol and drugs. Physical symptoms like unexplained aches, digestive problems, or changes in appetite are common but easily dismissed.
These signs can be harder to identify as depression, both for the person experiencing them and those around them. Understanding that depression presents differently in men is crucial for recognising when help is needed.
Risk Factors to Be Aware Of
Certain life events and circumstances increase vulnerability to depression and suicidal thoughts in men. These include:
Relationship breakdowns or divorce, bereavement, job loss or financial difficulties, chronic illness or pain, social isolation and loneliness, and a family history of mental health problems or suicide.
Major life transitions, such as retirement or becoming a father, can also trigger mental health struggles in men who may feel unprepared or unsupported.
How to Help Someone You're Worried About
If you're concerned about a man in your life, starting a conversation can feel daunting. You might worry about saying the wrong thing or making matters worse. But reaching out could save a life.
What's important as a partner or friend is to bring up the subject even if it feels scary. Dare to ask the question, 'how are you feeling?'
Express what you've noticed about their behaviour without blame or judgment. Let them know you're there to listen without trying to fix everything. Sometimes just being heard makes an enormous difference.
Be prepared that they might not open up immediately. That's okay. Simply showing you care plants a seed that they can return to when they're ready.
If You're Struggling
If you recognise these signs in yourself, know that you're not alone and that effective help is available. Depression is a treatable condition, and seeking support is the first step towards feeling better.
Talking to your GP is often the best starting point. They can discuss your symptoms, explore treatment options, and refer you to specialist services if needed. Treatment might include talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication, or a combination of approaches tailored to your needs.
A Livi GP can provide confidential support and guidance from the comfort of your own home, which many men find more accessible than traditional appointments.
Small Steps That Make a Difference
Alongside professional support, there are practical steps that can help protect and improve your mental health:
Stay connected with friends and family, even when you don't feel like it. Regular physical activity releases mood-boosting endorphins. Limit alcohol, which can worsen depression and anxiety. Maintain a regular sleep routine. Talk about how you're feeling, whether to loved ones or a professional. Be patient and compassionate with yourself.
Looking after your mental health isn't self-indulgent; it's essential. Just as you'd see a doctor about a physical injury, your mental wellbeing deserves the same attention and care.
Breaking the Silence
This Men's Health Month, let's challenge the idea that struggling means weakness. Real strength lies in recognising when you need support and taking steps to get it. Every conversation we have about men's mental health chips away at the stigma that keeps too many men suffering alone.
If you're worried about yourself or someone else, please don't wait. Reaching out today could change everything.
For comprehensive mental health information, support resources, and details on how to access professional help, visit Livi's mental health information and support page.
Dr Todd Green Lead General Practitioner, Livi UK
