How to support the mental health of the men in your life
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Is the man in your life struggling with their mental health? Here's how to check in with them. Plus, 6 tips that can help men support their mental health.
When you look at the men in your life, they may seem strong and independent, capable and ready to laugh off life’s challenges and setbacks. But the way that many men seem from the outside doesn’t always reflect what’s going on inside. Because of this, men’s mental health often doesn’t get the attention it needs and deserves.
Many of the guys in our lives may try to handle tough moments on their own and even believe that they need to avoid showing vulnerability. Not only is this a misconception when it comes to “masculinity,” but it can also make it harder for them to seek help when they need it.
When it comes to someone close to you, like a male partner, a friend, your brother, dad, or a male colleague, you might notice subtle signs that can point to something not being quite right. Maybe they’re quieter than usual, becoming quick to anger more often, or passing on activities they once enjoyed. Unfortunately, the signs aren’t always obvious which can make it harder to know when there’s a problem, or how to offer support.
It’s time to break the silence and stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Let’s discuss the common mental health issues men face, and practical ways you can help the men in your life feel less alone and more understood.
What are common mental health issues that affect men?
Men face many of the same mental health challenges as women, but the way they show up can look different. So different, in fact, that sometimes men don’t even realize they’re dealing with a mental health condition at all.
Here’s a closer look at some of the key challenges men may face.
1. Depression
For some men, depression can show up as frustration, annoyance, or even anger. Some men might bury themselves in work, while others may withdraw from social activities. You might also notice physical signs like constant tiredness, changes in appetite, or trouble sleeping.
These symptoms can sometimes be brushed off as just feeling “off” or stressed by something particular that’s going on for them right now, but they might be indicators of something deeper.
2. Anxiety
Not everyone experiences anxiety, but for some men it may go unnoticed because it can look like restlessness or trouble concentrating, rather than obvious worry.
In some cases, an anxious man may throw themselves into work or hobbies. This can be a coping mechanism that enables them to avoid certain situations or distract themselves from feeling on edge. Sleep problems, muscle tension, and stomach issues can also be common signs.
3. Stress
Everyone experiences stress occasionally, but stress that lasts a long time (also called chronic stress) can have a serious impact on men’s mental and physical health. Prolonged high stress can sometimes cause men to become more impatient or angry, have difficulty focusing, or bring frequent headaches and body aches.
Over time, untreated stress can lead to more severe health problems like heart disease or high blood pressure, making it even more important to address early.
4. Substance abuse
Since mental health difficulties can be hard for men to identify or seek help with, some men cope with their mental health by turning to alcohol or drugs. This can start as an occasional escape but sometimes turns into a long-term problem.
Substance abuse can mask the symptoms of depression or anxiety, but in the long run, it often makes things worse. If you notice a man in your life drinking more frequently or relying on substances to unwind, it could be a sign of underlying mental health struggles.
5. Suicide risk
Men are more likely to die by suicide than women, often because they don’t seek help until they feel overwhelmed by untreated depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Look out for warning signs like saying they feel hopeless, or frequently talking about themselves negatively, saying they’re a burden, or withdrawing from loved ones. Take these symptoms seriously, and try to encourage open, supportive conversations.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available. In the US, call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or use their online chat. It's open 24 hours every day and is free and private.
Contact emergency services if you’re concerned that someone has, or will, harm themselves.
How to support men's mental health: 5 ways to check in on the man in your life
A lot of times, the hardest part for men is just feeling like they have permission to open up. Supporting them by showing that you care and are willing to listen can make a big difference to their feelings of isolation and encourage healthier coping habits.
Here are five simple, practical ways you can check in and offer support to the men in your life.
1. Ask them open-ended questions
It’s easy to ask, “Are you okay?” but that question often leads to a quick, “Yeah, I’m fine.” Instead, try asking questions that invite a deeper response, like:
“How have you been feeling lately?”
“Is anything stressing you out right now?”
“What’s been on your mind these days?”
These can give him room to share at his own pace without feeling pressured. If he shrugs it off at first, that’s okay. Sometimes just knowing that someone cares enough to ask can open the door for a conversation later.
2. Listen to their feelings without judgment
When a man in your life does open up, resist the urge to jump in with solutions right away. Offering advice can feel like you’re doing something helpful and supportive, but sometimes what they really need is to feel heard. So, let him share without cutting him off or trying to solve the problem immediately. Instead, try the following:
“That sounds really tough.”
“I’m here if you need to talk more.”
“I appreciate you sharing this with me.”
This kind of validation shows that you take his feelings seriously. If he pauses or seems unsure how to continue, using gentle prompts like, “Can you tell me more about that?” This can help keep the conversation going. Once he’s got the feelings out there, he might ask you for advice.
3. Pay attention to their non-verbal cues
Men often won’t come right out and say they’re struggling, but their actions can tell you a lot. Pay attention to changes in their behavior, mood, or even their physical health. If he seems more tired than usual, starts to avoid socializing, or loses interest in hobbies he used to love, these could be signs that something’s off. Check in gently with words like:
“I’ve noticed you seem a little down lately. Is everything okay?”
“You seem quiet today — do you want to talk about anything?”
He may not open up right away, but bringing it up lets him know you’re paying attention and care about his wellbeing.
4. Encourage them to seek professional help
If the man in your life continues to show signs of mental health difficulties, talk with them about professional support. Therapy or counseling can sometimes feel intimidating for men, so if you introduce the idea, it can help ease some of that hesitation. You could say something like:
“It might help to talk to someone who’s trained in this stuff.”
“I can help you look for a therapist if that feels overwhelming.”
“A lot of people find counseling helpful. Do you think you might give it a try?”
Offer to help him research therapists or even sit with him while he makes the first call. If he’s not ready for therapy, suggest smaller steps like reading a book or online mental health resources.
💙 Consider sharing our Getting Out Of Bed meditation led by Jeff Warren if someone you love could use gentle support in starting their day.
5. Keep trying to talk to them, but be patient
Some men might not be ready to open up about their mental health right away, and that’s okay. It can be a big, scary step to let someone in. You can still support them by showing up consistently and letting them know you’re there for the long haul. (Here are eight ways to try today.)
Check in regularly, even if it’s just a quick, “How are things going this week?” When you’re reliably there to listen, he’s more likely to feel comfortable enough to talk. So, go at his pace.
6 tips for men to support their mental health
Do you find your mental health often takes a backseat to work, family, or all the other responsibilities you have to take care of? We hear you. It might feel like a lot of people are relying on you, so while you’re busy supporting them, you likely haven’t given your wellbeing much time or attention. It’s the same for a lot of guys.
Just like looking after your physical health, you can manage your stress, boost your mood, and improve your overall quality of life with small, daily actions that add up over time. Building habits that keep you feeling balanced can help you stay positive and strong (for yourself and those around you).
Here are six practical tips that can help you create a healthier, happier future for yourself.
1. Lace up your sneakers
Exercise isn’t just about staying in shape — it’s one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Physical activity helps reduce stress hormones and boosts chemicals in your brain that improve mood and energy. And you don’t need to hit the gym for hours to feel the benefits. Just a 30-minute walk, bike ride, or game of basketball can help clear your head and lift your spirits.
Love getting physical? Read up on the five benefits of full-body workouts on your mental health.
Try this: Pick an activity you enjoy, and aim to do it at least three or four times a week. If motivation is an issue, invite a friend to join you or set small, achievable goals that you can check off to see your progress.
2. Hang with your people
If, like many men, you find it harder to reach out or stay connected, send a couple of quick texts to check in with friends, or grab lunch with a coworker. These seem like small things, but keeping in touch can help you build strong relationships, feel less lonely, and give you a safe space to talk and process what’s on your mind.
Try this: Schedule regular meetups with friends or family. A monthly hangout with your buddies can keep you connected and grounded, and if you prefer smaller groups, one-on-one meetups work just as well. Even if you feel a little nervous, sharing your feelings when times are tough is a brave and strong step. You can do it.
3. Give mindfulness a whirl
Mindfulness helps you stay in the now and reduce the mental clutter that can build up during the day. Use meditation, simple breathing exercises, or a few minutes of quiet focus. This can help calm your mind, ease anxiety, lower stress levels and improve your overall mood.
Try this: Start with five minutes of deep breathing or guided meditation each morning or before bed.
💙 Try our Mindfulness for Beginners series if you’re new to the world of meditation.
4. Set goals you can actually achieve
Sometimes, the pressure to succeed or handle everything at once can feel overwhelming. Breaking down big tasks into smaller steps can help reduce that pressure, because checking off achievable goals boosts confidence and keeps you from feeling stuck. Remember, progress is progress, even if it seems small.
Try this: Make a short to-do list each day with three manageable tasks. Celebrate each win, and give yourself credit for what you accomplish — even if it’s not everything. Did you know you can set goals for your wellbeing, too? Check out our 10 mental health goals.
5. Try a booze break
Lots of people like to unwind with a beer or glass of wine after work, but relying on alcohol or other substances to manage stress can backfire. While it might feel like a temporary escape, alcohol and drugs can increase feelings of anxiety and depression in the long run. Reducing intake or finding healthier ways to relax can improve your sleep, your mental health, and your physical wellbeing.
Try this: Set limits for yourself or take a few alcohol-free days each week. Meeting the guys in a bar? Switch to zero alcohol beer. Alternatively, swap drinking for other stress-relieving activities, like going for a hike with your buddies, journaling, or getting absorbed in your favorite hobby. Get some more ideas with our 24 ways to have fun without alcohol.
6. Don’t sleep on sleep
Poor sleep can make stress feel worse, lower your patience, and affect concentration. And men are sometimes known to push through exhaustion to try to stay productive. If this is you, you’ve probably noticed that lack of sleep can wear you down over time. Create a better sleep routine to help restore energy and keep your mind sharp. And give yourself plenty of breaks during the day, too.
Try this: Set a consistent bedtime and stick to it, even on weekends. Reduce your screen time at least 30 minutes before bed, and create a calm, quiet environment to help you unwind.
How to support men's mental health FAQs
What should I ask a man when checking in on his mental health?
When checking in on a man’s mental health, ask questions that open the door for real conversation. Many men are used to brushing off simple questions like “Are you okay?” with quick, automatic answers. To encourage a deeper response, ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no.
Try asking how they’ve been feeling or if there’s anything on their mind that’s been bothering them.
Bring up specific things you’ve noticed, like, “You seem quieter lately. How have things been going?” This shows that you’re paying attention and genuinely care.
Create a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing without fear of judgment.
Let the conversation flow naturally, and avoid pushing too hard if they seem hesitant. Sometimes just knowing someone is willing to listen makes all the difference.
Don’t try to fix their problems right away. Instead, let them know they don’t have to face things alone.
What role does physical activity play in men's mental health?
Physical activity plays a huge role in boosting mental health, and it’s often one of the easiest and most effective ways men can improve their mood.
When you exercise, the body releases natural chemicals that reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness. Physical activity also helps lower cortisol, the stress hormone, which can ease any anxiety and improve your overall mental clarity. Beyond the chemical benefits, exercise can give you a break from daily pressures and allow you to focus on something positive and rewarding.
Even small amounts of exercise can make a noticeable difference. Try regular walks, cycling, swimming, or short home workouts to see how they improve your energy levels and create a sense of accomplishment.
If you struggle with motivation, give group activities like team sports or gym classes a go, for social interaction and structure, which can give your mental wellbeing a boost. The important thing is finding an activity you enjoy, so it feels less like a chore and more like a healthy habit to look forward to.
How can employers support men's mental health in the workplace?
Employers can support men’s mental health by creating an environment where mental wellbeing is taken seriously. When men feel supported at work, they’re more likely to stay productive, engaged, and mentally healthy.
Promote open conversations about mental health.
Leaders and managers can talk openly about stress, burnout, or the need for work-life balance, as it helps normalize these topics and makes employees feel safer seeking help when needed.
Value mental health in the workplace culture to reduce stigma and encourage men to address issues early.
Provide resources like access to mental health services, such as counseling or employee assistance programs (EAPs).
Give the options of flexible work schedules, mental health days, and opportunities for remote work, as this can also ease stress and improve overall job satisfaction.
Encourage small changes, like encouraging regular breaks, offering wellness programs, or hosting workshops on stress management.
How do I destigmatize men's mental health?
For a long time, men have been conditioned to believe that asking for help or expressing vulnerability is a sign of weakness, so destigmatizing men’s mental health can start with changing the way we talk about it.
Talking openly about stress, anxiety, or therapy can normalize conversations about mental health can help shift the narrative and get people used to the idea that taking care of mental wellbeing is as important as physical health.
Chat about mental health with your friends and family, and remind the men in your life that struggles are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Lead with empathy and understanding. If you’ve faced mental health challenges yourself and you feel comfortable discussing them, sharing personal experiences—when appropriate—can help other men realize they’re not alone.
How do I help the man in my life with his mental health?
If a man in your life might benefit from help with his mental health, you can give support without feeling you have to mean solve all his problems. When the man you’re close to does share, resist the urge to immediately jump into problem-solving mode. Instead, focus on listening and acknowledging his feelings.
Often, the most valuable thing you can do is simply be there by showing you care and you’re available to listen when he’s ready to talk. Sometimes men might hesitate to open up because they don’t want to burden others or feel like they need to tough it out alone. So, check in and create a space where he feels safe, so you can help break down those barriers.
Use phrases like “I hear you” or “That sounds really hard,” which can be reassuring and validate what he’s going through. If he’s open to it, gently suggest professional help or self-care strategies that could make a difference. But always be patient. Mental health journeys take time, and your ongoing support can help him feel less isolated and more hopeful about the future.
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