When it comes to health, men can sometimes face a unique barrier: the silence around talking about their struggles.

From mental wellbeing being to physical ailments, the societal pressures for men to "tough it out" can be intense, discouraging open discussions about personal health. Studies have shown that men are far less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, and many delay medical consultations until symptoms become severe. This reluctance isn't due to lack of awareness solely, but is also rooted in stigma.

Why should talking about health feel like it is breaking the unwritten code of masculinity? This stigma comes with consequences, not only for men's health, but for the wellbeing of those around them.

The Cost of Silence

Avoiding health discussions comes with risks. Men who hesitate to seek help or talk about their struggles are more likely to experience untreated mental health issues, increased stress, and chronic conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. Men are also more likely to suffer from undiagnosed depression and have a higher risk of suicide compared to women. This silence isn't just about avoiding a difficult conversation, it is about lives affected by an unyielding expectation to carry burdens alone.

Changing The Narrative

How can YOU help?

• Normalise health conversations in daily life by sharing personal stories, discuss health openly and simply check in with friends - this an help reinforce the idea that is is completely okay and normal to talk about wellbeing.
• Encourage mental health resources and support within your workplace, this can encourage fellow employees to become supportive allies. Telling male peers to attend mental health workshops or discussions can help make this a normal part of working culture.
• Celebrate vulnerability as strength. Stories of men who are willing to talk openly about their health struggles can reshape our definition of resilience. By celebrating this as a form of courage, we can begin to view seeking help as a strength, not a weakness.
• Highlight role models who speak up, including public figures, celebrities or colleagues who openly discuss their health journeys - this can inspire others to do the same.
• Create community support with men's groups, health forums and supportive communities that can help provide spaces where mean feel less isolated in their struggles.

Looking Ahead

Breaking the stigma around men's health isn't just about starting conversations, it's about creating a world where men feel supported in every part of their wellbeing journey. Men shouldn't have to carry their health burdens in silence, and by making it easier to talk about their challenges, we can reduce these risks that come with secrecy.

A small conversation today, could lead to life-saving changes tomorrow.