Introduction

This series aims to confront the silence surrounding men’s mental health, uncovering the roots of stigma, and exploring realistic ways to promote healing and emotional resilience in men.

It is the first week of Men’s Mental Health Month. From a young age, most men are taught behaviours that make them hesitant to open up. A few eventually do—but after trusting the wrong people who later turned their backs on them, they retreat deeper into silence. This month exists to raise awareness about mental health challenges in general, but more specifically, to shine a light on the unique mental struggles men face.

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel, act, manage stress, relate to others, and make choices (source). There is both good and poor mental health: good mental health enhances our lives and helps us thrive, while poor mental health can make daily life difficult, painful, and overwhelming.

Men are often told to “face it all”, no matter the consequences. This mindset contributes to the alarming fact that men have a higher rate of successful suicides than women. Yes, some men commit crimes and cause harm, but that is not who we are speaking about today. Today, we stand with the men who are silently struggling, those surviving each day, unsure if they want to see another sunrise. The ones who want to reach out, but cannot—because of fear, past betrayals, or judgment of their traumas.

In a BBC article, it is stated that men are more likely to die by suicide than women, often because they choose more lethal methods. Globally, the male-to-female suicide ratio is about 1.7:1. This is partly due to societal expectations that men must suppress their emotions. Many have been dismissed, mocked, or shamed for opening up—told they are weak, told to “man up,” and conditioned from childhood not to cry or express pain.

This emotional repression carries into adulthood, where most men struggle to process their pain. With little emotional literacy or support, they may turn to destructive coping mechanisms: excessive alcohol, smoking, drugs, or even womanising—anything to escape or numb the hurt. Research confirms that men and boys are more likely than women and girls to engage in substance abuse.

This series is not intended to blame anyone or romanticise pain. It is about creating space for the silent battles men fight—battles that deserve to be acknowledged, understood, and supported. As we journey through Men’s Mental Health Month, let this be a reminder that seeking help is not a weakness, it is being courageous. Speaking out is not attention-seeking; it is survival. Whether you are a man navigating these struggles or someone who knows and cares for one, this is for you.

Let us break the cycle—one honest conversation at a time.