Men's Mental Health Month
- rjmiller250801
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
Posted 10th November 2025 by Rachel Miller
Movember, also known as Men’s Mental Health Month, is a global campaign that takes place every November in the UK. It highlights the physical and mental health challenges that men face and encourages greater awareness and action. The campaign reminds men to look after their health, to check in with themselves and others, and to take steps when something doesn’t feel right. It also offers an opportunity to better understand men’s mental health needs by opening up important conversations, breaking down barriers to seeking support, and promoting positive mental wellbeing.
Why men don’t seek mental health support
“Man up!”
From a young age, many men are taught to suppress emotions like sadness, fear, or vulnerability. Showing vulnerability is often mistaken for weakness, so many men keep their feelings to themselves.
Societal expectations
Traditional masculine ideals emphasise strength, independence, and self-reliance so admitting to emotional distress or asking for help can feel like a failure. These ideals can be particularly strong in workplaces, sports and social groups.
Workplace and financial pressures
The expectation to be the main provider can make men feel they can’t “afford” to struggle. Work-related stress and burnout are often minimised or ignored until they reach crisis levels.
Limited supportive spaces
Men’s social connections often revolve around activities rather than emotional sharing.
Without safe or normalised spaces to talk, men’s emotions can be overlooked or pushed aside.
“I found that with depression one of the most important things you could realise is that you’re not alone. You’re not the first to go through it… I wish I had someone at that time who could just pull me aside and [say], ‘Hey, it’s going to be okay.'” (Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson)
How you can help
If you think someone is struggling, or perhaps they’re not acting their normal self, don’t be afraid to check in with them, even if it means asking them twice. Offering them a safe space to share and encouraging them to open up could make a big difference.
Simply listening, even when you don’t have the answers can be enough, as it helps the person feel seen and reinforces the idea that it’s safe to open up. It can also encourage trust and connection.
Sometimes offering practical support can be helpful addition to your approach, especially if opening up feels too difficult to begin with. Whether you offer to meet up with them, accompany them to a GP appointment or help in finding a support group.
And don’t forget to check-in with them regularly, whether in person, on the phone or by text. Believing they have someone supporting them can really help in times of crisis.
Support
Here are some trusted organisations that support men’s mental health and wellbeing
Counselling and therapy
For some men, therapy can feel daunting, or they may worry their issues aren’t serious enough. Opening up about emotions may also feel unfamiliar or risky. Yet counselling offers a safe, confidential space to explore thoughts, reduce stress, and build healthier coping skills, reminding us that real strength lies not in silence, but in self-awareness, openness, and the courage to grow.
A final word
Through my work with men and young men, both in private practice and as a school counsellor, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when men are given the space to talk, whether that’s with a counsellor, a friend, or a family member.
The more we talk about and normalise mental health, the easier and more life-changing these conversations can become.
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