“Man Up”? Nah, Let’s Talk Up.

Breaking the Silence for Men’s Mental Health

June isn’t just about pool parties and barbecue smoke signals—it’s also Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. And no, this isn’t just another hashtag. This is your reminder that men’s mental health matters just as much as anyone else's—and it’s time we normalize talking about it.

The Problem: Silence in a Loud World

We live in a world that teaches men early on to “man up,” “tough it out,” and "walk it off." But mental health doesn’t work like a sprained ankle or a bad haircut—it doesn’t just go away because you ignore it.

Men are statistically less likely to seek help for depression, anxiety, or trauma. Not because they’re weak—but because they’ve been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness. Let’s flip that script: vulnerability isn’t weakness. It’s courage with a pulse.

The Reality: It Affects Everyone

Mental health challenges don’t discriminate. Whether you're a veteran adjusting to civilian life, a dad trying to balance work and family, or a young guy just trying to figure out who he is—your mental health is real, valid, and worthy of support.

Did you know?

• 1 in 4 men experience a mental health issue in their lifetime

• Suicide rates are 4x higher in men than women

• Black, Latino, LGBTQ+, and veteran communities face even greater stigmas and barriers to care

This isn’t just a “you” thing—it’s an “us” thing.

The Shift: It Starts with One Conversation

Start small. Text a friend. Open up to your partner. Ask your dad how he’s really doing. Therapy, journaling, talking to your dog (seriously, they're great listeners)—whatever gets it out of your head and into the open is a step in the right direction.

And if you’ve never heard it before, hear it now: You are allowed to feel. You are allowed to struggle. And you are absolutely allowed to ask for help.

The Tools: More Than Just a Punching Bag

Men’s mental wellness isn’t just about managing crisis—it's about building habits that protect your peace long-term.

Try:

• Daily movement (no, mowing the lawn doesn’t count—okay, maybe sometimes)

• Therapy or peer support groups

• Limiting alcohol when you're down

• Prioritizing sleep and real conversations over avoidance and "I'm fine."

• Apps like Headspace, BetterHelp, or Veteran-focused support lines

Final Thought:

If you're reading this and something inside you nodded or ached or said, “Damn, that’s me”—don’t brush it off. Check in with yourself. And if you’re able, check in with someone else too.

Because being a man isn’t about having it all together—it’s about showing up, even when things fall apart.

P.S. If you’re in crisis or need to talk, call or text 988 (in the U.S.) for free, confidential support.