Men’s Mental Health: Why It Matters and Easy Ways to Stay Well

clytenjeri
Nov 28
4 min read

Every November, millions of people across the world grow moustaches to spark conversations about men’s health. But Movember is about more than facial hair — it’s a powerful reminder that men’s mental health is a serious and often overlooked issue, especially in the United States.

Men face unique pressures, cultural expectations, and emotional barriers that often prevent them from seeking help. This blog explores why men’s mental health matters, the challenges men face, and practical steps to maintain mental health.

Why Men’s Mental Health Matters in the United States

While mental health affects everyone, men in the U.S. experience unusual and alarming trends:

1. Men die by suicide at far higher rates

Nearly 80% of suicide deaths in the U.S. are men. Despite this, men are significantly less likely to seek therapy or talk about their struggles.

2. Anxiety and depression are common among U.S. men

About 14.3% of men experience an anxiety disorder each year.
1 in 3 men will experience depression at some point in their lifetime.

These conditions often go unnoticed because men frequently express emotional distress differently — through irritability, anger, withdrawal, or risk-taking.

3. Stigma is still a major barrier

Many American men grow up hearing:

“Man up.”
“Don’t show weakness.”
“Deal with it yourself.”

These outdated expectations discourage men from opening up, seeking therapy, or asking for help — which can lead to worsening mental health.

Why Men Often Avoid Seeking Help

Understanding these barriers is key to improving men’s well-being.

✔ Cultural pressure to be “strong.”

Men often feel obligated to appear invulnerable, even when struggling internally.

✔ Difficulty identifying emotions

Many men aren't taught emotional vocabulary growing up, making it hard for them to express what they feel.

✔ Fear of judgment

Worries about being seen as “weak” or “incapable” stop many from seeking therapy.

✔ Uncertainty about how therapy works

Some men simply don’t know where to start — or assume therapy is only for “crises.”

These obstacles can delay help until stress turns into burnout, anxiety becomes overwhelming, or depression becomes life-threatening.

Signs a Man Might Be Struggling

While every person experiences mental health differently, men often show symptoms such as:

Irritability or anger
Withdrawal from friends and family
Loss of interest in hobbies
Risky or impulsive behavior
Increased alcohol or substance use
Trouble sleeping
Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or “numb.”

Recognizing these signs early can save lives. Learn more

How Men in the U.S. Can Stay Mentally Healthy

Just as physical fitness requires ongoing care, mental health also necessitates regular attention. Here are practical and realistic strategies that many men can start implementing right now.

1. Stay Connected With People Who Care

Social connection is one of the strongest protectors against depression and suicide.

Catch up with a friend
Join a sports league or hobby group
Talk openly with someone you trust
Don’t self-isolate during stressful times

A simple conversation can make a profound difference.

2. Move Your Body — Any Movement Helps

Exercise doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym.

Walking, running, cycling, weight training, yoga — even 20–30 minutes a day helps:

Lower anxiety
Improve sleep
Boost mood
Release built-up tension

Find an activity you actually enjoy, so you’ll stick with it.

3. Prioritize Sleep

Lack of sleep increases stress, irritability, and emotional sensitivity.

Try:

A consistent sleep schedule
Limiting screens before bed
Avoiding caffeine late in the day
Creating a restful sleep environment

A good night's sleep supports emotional resilience and clearer thinking.

4. Reduce Unhealthy Coping Habits

Men are more likely to use substances to numb emotions. Be mindful of increases in:

Alcohol
Smoking
Recreational drug use

If you notice these habits becoming a coping mechanism, it’s time to reach out for help.

5. Learn to Recognize Stress Early

Stress doesn’t just show up as worry. For many men, it appears as:

Anger
Low motivation
Fatigue
Body tension
Avoidance

Try stress-reducing activities such as journaling, meditation, deep breathing, or simply taking moments of silence.

6. Seek Professional Support — It’s a sign of strength

Talking to a therapist is not a weakness — it’s a sign of courage.

If you’ve been feeling low, overwhelmed, or “not yourself” for more than two weeks, speaking with a mental health professional can help you process emotions, learn coping skills, and regain control.

For such help, call 530-537-8244 or write to us info@jabalihealth.com

Movember: A Call to Action for Men Everywhere

Movember isn’t just about growing moustaches. It’s a movement encouraging men to:

Open up
Check in on friends
Prioritize mental well-being
Break harmful stereotypes
Seek help when needed

By talking openly, supporting one another, and embracing healthier habits, we can change the narrative around men’s mental health in America.

Final Thoughts

Men’s mental health matters — not only during Movember, but every day. Whether you’re a man struggling silently, a parent, a partner, a colleague, or a friend, you have a role to play.

Take the First Step

If you’ve been feeling stressed, flat, or overwhelmed, now is the time to reach out. At Jabali Behavioral Health, we provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to discuss their concerns and explore practical solutions.

Get in touch today or book your first appointment online.

Taking care of your mental health is one of the best investments you can make in yourself – and those who care about you.

References/Resources

National Institue of Health. (2022, June 7). Suicide among males across the lifespan: An analysis of differences by known mental health status. PMC Home. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9437900/

National Institute of Menta Health. (2025). Any anxiety disorder. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder

Price, A. (2025, November 24). 8 subtle behaviors that reveal a man is secretly struggling with life, according to psychology. The Artful Parent. https://artfulparent.com/k-8-subtle-behaviors-that-reveal-a-man-is-secretly-struggling-with-life/