Breaking the silence on International Men’s Day
Breaking the silence on International Men’s Day
November 2023
CW: Suicide prevention
On Sunday, November 19th, International Men’s Day shone a spotlight on the well-being of men around the globe, emphasising a crucial theme this year: zero male suicide. In a world where societal expectations often pressure men to bottle up their emotions, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for open conversations about mental health, particularly in the workplace. Our Mental Health and Wellbeing policy ensures adherence to the Equality Act 2010 and will help you understand how you can navigate these conversations with your employees.
This year’s theme resonates deeply with the alarming statistics surrounding male suicide rates. The Samaritans data show that male suicide rate in the UK was 3 times that of woman at 15.8 per 100,000, compared to a female suicide rate of 5.5 per 100,000 in 2021. Men often face societal norms that discourage vulnerability and emotional expression, contributing to higher rates of untreated mental health issues. International Men’s day encourages a perspective shift, urging men to break the silence and reach out for support.
In the workplace, the significance of fostering an environment where men feel comfortable discussing their mental health cannot be overstated. It’s vital to approach these conversations with empathy and care, creating a safe space for dialogue. The traditional “toughen up” mentality prevalent in many workplaces, particularly ones where that culture hasn’t already been challenged can exacerbate the problem, leading to a culture of silence that prevents men from seeking help.
Supervisors and managers play a crucial role in shaping workplace culture. They must actively promote a culture of trust and openness, assuring employees that they won’t face mockery or judgement for expressing vulnerability. Encouraging regular check-ins, placing posters around the workplace with websites and numbers for the Samaritans or Mind and destigmatising mental health discussions can contribute to a healthier and more supportive work environment.
Norwich City F.C., a football club known for its community engagement, released a poignant video on World Mental Health Day that aligns with the theme of International Men’s Day. The video emphasises the importance of recognising signs of struggle, acknowledging that sometimes these signs are not easily noticeable. This powerful message transcends the realm of sports and serves as a universal call to action.
As we reflect on International Men’s Day and its theme of zero male suicide, ask yourself, are you committed to fostering an inclusive culture that encourages men to speak up, share their struggles, and seek the support they deserve? Breaking the silence is the first step toward building a world where mental health is prioritised, and no one suffers in silence. To access our template Mental Health and Wellbeing policy visit the ‘H&S Documents’ page on the Portal.