Let’s Talk About Men’s Mental Health – Breaking the Silence
Men’s mental health matters. Yet, many men in the UK are still suffering in silence due to stigma and societal expectations. It’s time to change that.
Why this matters:
- 1 in 8 men in England experience common mental health problems such as anxiety or depression at any given time.
- Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK. Every day, 14 men die by suicide, accounting for three-quarters of all suicides.
- Men are less likely to seek help: only 36% of NHS referrals for talking therapies are for men, and nearly half of men feel embarrassed to tell their employer about mental health struggles.
Why does this happen?
Traditional gender norms and fear of judgment often prevent men from speaking up. But mental health is just as important as physical health—and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What can you do?
- Start a conversation: Check in with friends, family, and colleagues.
- Know the signs: Withdrawal, irritability, changes in sleep or appetite can all be indicators.
- Seek support: Confidential help is available through NHS Talking Therapies and charities like Mind and Samaritans or speak to one of our Mental Health First Aiders. See more details about ManDown and other men’s mental health support organisations below
Remember: Talking saves lives. Let’s break the stigma and make mental health a priority for everyone.
ManDown is a non profit charity that run informal, peer-led talking groups across the UK, providing a safe, judgment-free space for men to share their struggles and connect with others who understand.
By fostering open conversations, ManDown aim to break the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and reduce the number of male suicides.
“Together, we can end the silence and save lives”.
How does Man Down support Men’s Mental Health?
- Holding informal, fortnightly peer-led talking groups
- Organising events and challenges to raise awareness
- Running weekend retreats that provide space for deeper connection and reflection. Each group regularly arranges its own social events, helping to strengthen bonds and provide ongoing support outside of their regular meetings.
- Recruiting volunteers who have experienced poor mental health to facilitate meetings
Man Down UK is important because:
- It deals with men’s mental health gap
- It addresses the stigma and normalise talking
- It creates a community and social connection
Where can you find groups close to us?
Other Men’s Mental Health Charities in the UK:
Andy’s Man Club – who also offer local support groups in local areas
Tough To Talk – leading Men’s Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Charity