Support Mental Health Research
Men's Mental Health Research
Many men struggle with their mental health and all to often stigmas and societal
expectations around masculinity add to the pressure to mask how they feel.
Studies have shown that men are more likely to die from suicide than women
are and are less likely to seek help. This is why mental health research is so
important, as it can help lead to better understanding and treatment of mental
health issues.
%
of men in the UK suffer from a common mental health disorder
%
of suicides in the UK are by men.
%
of people referred to NHS talking therapies are men, a disproportionately low figure.
Why do some men find it hard to ask for help?
There isn't one singular reason as to why some men feel they cannot seek help if they are suffering with their mental health. It's a systemic issue with multiple reasons. We have listed some of them on the right with a short analysis. Take a look.
Embarrassment and Societal Pressures
Society has made many men feel under pressure to present themselves as dominant, self resilient and be the main provider. This has led to many men feeling fearful of appearing weak, vulnerable or unmasculine. The idea of seeking help can be seen as a failure or shameful. The truth is the opposite is true. It's actually very brave to recognise when you need a hand and to ask for it.
If you are stuggeling you can find lots of different sources of support here.
No One To Talk To
It has been reported that men have much lower access to social support from the likes of friends and family. With male loneliness becoming a growing concern. In a 2024 study by the Survey Center of American Life they reported that nearly 20 percent of men stated they have no close friends (Ascend Therapy).
Not Wanting To Burden Anyone
A study of 1,000 men commisioned by Priory showed results that 36% of men reported that they don't speak about their mental health because they don't want to burden anyone with it. This goes hand in hand with the traditional thought that men should just "deal with it" in regards to any difficulties they face.
Struggling To Find The Words
The pressure many men feel to suppress their emotions can lead to men struggling to identify, process and describe their emotions. Many men have been discouraged to be vulnerable at a young age and this is a behaviour that's hard to un-learn or overcome. This is known as Normative Male Alexithymia, which is term coined by Ronald Levant.
How Can Mental Health Research Help?
Spot Hidden Signs
Research has helped us understand the Male Depressive Code by looking past standard signs of sadness. It gives us a clearer roadmap to spot "hidden" issues. We now know to focus on how men deal with pain, for example sudden anger or drinking more. With research we can catch early warning signs and help men get the right support before it gets worse.
Using the Right Language
It's important to use the right wording in order to not get the door shut. Research has shown that men are more likely to be receptive of seeking help if the service is themed as coaching rather than other forms of help, such as counselling (BPS).
Building The Right Environment
Research has shown the importance of creating unique environments such as digital therapies. Mind found that 22% of men prefer to seek help online. Whilst, Professor Rory O'Connor previously proved that a support programme delivered by telephone effectively reduces repeated suicide attempts.
Watch
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Raise Money For Mental Health Research
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You can simply to donate to MQ and help support the future of mental health research. Supporting ground breaking research to help us better understand, effectively treat and ultimately one day even prevent serious mental illness.
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