Let’s talk about men’s mental health.
We know—it’s not always the easiest topic to bring up. Many men grow up with messages that say, “Be strong. Don’t cry. Push through.” But here’s the truth: strength isn’t about staying silent or going it alone. Real strength is found in knowing when to ask for support—and taking steps to care for your mental health is one of the most powerful things you can do.
The Stats: What Men’s Mental Health Looks Like Today
Men face mental health challenges just like anyone else—but they often experience them differently or feel less comfortable seeking help. Here are a few facts worth knowing:
In 2023, among U.S. men* age 18 and older:
- 19% experienced a mental illness
- 21.4% dealt with a substance use disorder
- 45.9% with a mental illness received treatment in the past year
- 4.3% faced a serious mental illness
- 4.5% had serious thoughts of suicide in the past year
*Data from SAMHSA and NIMH, and reflects individuals assigned male sex at birth.
Stats from NAMIThese numbers tell a story that’s hard to ignore: men are struggling, often quietly. And that silence can be dangerous. Many men report feeling pressure to appear “tough” or “unshakeable,” which can lead to bottling up emotions and avoiding connection.
Why It’s Time for Men to Prioritize Mental Health
Mental health isn’t just about crisis—it’s about everyday well-being. When you take care of your mental health, everything else improves—relationships, work, physical health, sleep, decision-making. That’s because when you feel better, you live better.
At TherapyWorks, we see how transformative therapy can be for men. Whether it’s processing grief, managing stress, navigating relationship challenges, or healing from past trauma, connecting with a trusted therapist and prioritizing your mental health creates space to feel, understand, and grow.
How Men Can Support Their Mental Health
Whether you’re just starting to think about your mental health or looking for ways to feel more balanced, here are some simple, impactful ways to begin:
1. Talk to Someone You Trust
That might be a friend, a partner, or a therapist. Saying something out loud—especially something difficult—can be a huge relief. You don’t have to have the perfect words. Just start.
If you are curious about how therapy can help, join
2. Check In with Yourself
Pay attention to your emotional habits and triggers. Are you feeling numb, overwhelmed, quick to anger, or exhausted all the time? These can be signs something deeper is going on. Make a note of when you feel this way and if there are certain events or people who heighten the feelings.
3. Move Your Body
Exercise is a proven way to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. You don’t need to train for a marathon—a short daily walk, stretch, or pickup game with friends can go a long way.
4. Prioritize Sleep
Lack of sleep affects mood, focus, and overall mental health. Aim for 7–9 hours a night. If your sleep is off, consider cutting back on screen time, alcohol, or late-night work.
5. Limit Numbing Habits
Whether it’s alcohol, doom scrolling, or working non-stop, notice what you use to avoid your feelings. Replace one numbing habit with something that brings connection or calm, like calling a friend or getting outside.
6. Consider Therapy
Yes, therapy. It’s not just for crises. It’s a safe place to say what’s really going on and figure out what to do next—with support, not judgment. Curious about how therapy can help you? Attend one of our free Spark Sessions—virtual information sessions designed to encourage and guide you toward better mental health. Sign up at mytherapyworks.com/schedule
Yes, therapy. It’s not just for crises. It’s a safe place to say what’s really going on and figure out what to do next—with support, not judgment. Curious about how therapy can help? Attend one of our free Spark Sessionsvirtual information sessions designed to encourage and guide you toward better mental health
You’re Not Alone—And You Don’t Have to Figure It All Out By Yourself
At TherapyWorks, we’re on a mission to help people when it matters most—because when you feel better, you live better.
As a company that cares, we know mental health is important to all of us, and it’s more important now than ever that we take care of ourselves. If you are looking for help, let’s do this, together. Don’t hesitate to reach out:
• Visit mytherapyworks.com/schedule
• Call us at 408-508-6789 or 831-525-5000
• Email hello@mytherapyworks.com
Leave a Reply