Key Points
- Mental health problems are just as common in men as women
- Men are less likely to seek help — but help works
- 3 in 4 suicides in the UK are men
- Talking about how you feel is a sign of strength, not weakness
of suicides are men
men have a mental health problem
of men won't talk about mental health
Why Men Struggle to Get Help
Men are just as likely as women to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. But they're far less likely to seek help.
The Reality
Asking for help is brave — It takes courage to be honest about how you're feeling
Treatment works — Most people recover from depression and anxiety with the right support
You're not alone — Millions of men experience mental health problems
Early help prevents things getting worse — Don't wait until you're in crisis
Signs of Depression
Depression can look different in men. As well as low mood, you might experience:
Emotional Signs
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Irritability and anger
- Feeling hopeless
- Loss of interest in things
- Feeling worthless
Physical Signs
- Fatigue and low energy
- Sleep problems
- Changes in appetite
- Physical aches and pains
- Loss of sex drive
Behavioural Signs
- Drinking more alcohol
- Taking more risks
- Withdrawing from friends/family
- Working excessively
- Being aggressive
Thinking Patterns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Negative thoughts
- Indecisiveness
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Feeling like a burden
If you've had several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, please talk to someone.
Signs of Anxiety
Anxiety is more than just worry. It can include:
- Constant worry that's hard to control
- Feeling on edge or restless
- Difficulty relaxing
- Panic attacks (racing heart, shortness of breath, sweating)
- Avoiding situations that make you anxious
- Sleep problems
- Muscle tension
- Irritability
If You're in Crisis
If you're having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please reach out:
Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Crisis Text Line: Text SHOUT to 85258
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): 0800 58 58 58 (5pm-midnight)
NHS 111: Option 2 for mental health crisis
A&E: If you've harmed yourself or are about to
You matter. Help is available. Please reach out.
Getting Help
Talk to Your GP
Your GP is often the best starting point. They can:
- Listen without judgment
- Assess your mental health
- Rule out physical causes
- Refer you for talking therapy
- Prescribe medication if appropriate
- Sign you off work if needed
Many men find it easier to talk to a male GP if one is available.
Talking Therapies
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) — Helps change unhelpful thought patterns
- Counselling — Talking through problems with a trained professional
- NHS Talking Therapies — Free service, you can self-refer without seeing a GP
Medication
Antidepressants can be very effective, especially for moderate to severe depression. They:
- Are not addictive
- Don't change your personality
- Usually take 2-4 weeks to work
- Are often used alongside therapy
Things That Can Help
- Talk to someone — Friend, family member, colleague, helpline
- Stay active — Exercise is proven to help depression and anxiety
- Limit alcohol — It's a depressant and makes things worse
- Keep a routine — Structure helps when you're struggling
- Get outside — Nature and daylight improve mood
- Connect with others — Don't isolate yourself
- Set small goals — Achieve something each day
- Be kind to yourself — You wouldn't criticise a friend for struggling
Support Resources
Supporting Someone Else
If you're worried about a man in your life:
- Ask how they are — And really listen to the answer
- Ask twice — People often say "I'm fine" when they're not
- Don't try to fix things — Just listening helps
- Stay in touch — Keep checking in, even if they push you away
- Encourage professional help — Offer to go with them to the GP
- Take threats seriously — If they mention suicide, take it seriously
- Look after yourself too — Supporting someone is hard; get your own support