Published: November 2023
Reading time: 5 minutes
Suitable for: Employers, Managers, Supervisors and Employees
Topics: Mental Health | Wellbeing | International Men’s Day | Workplace Culture
Content warning: This article discusses suicide and mental health.
At a glance
Main goal: Encourage open conversations about men’s mental health.
Who should get involved? Everyone in the workplace.
Key action: Create an environment where people feel safe asking for help.
Remember: Looking after mental health is just as important as looking after physical health.
Why this matters
International Men’s Day, held each year on 19 November, provides an opportunity to celebrate the positive contributions men make to society while also raising awareness of the challenges many continue to face.
One of the most important conversations is around men’s mental health.
Many men still feel pressure to appear strong, independent and resilient at all times. These expectations can make it harder to talk openly about stress, anxiety, depression or thoughts of suicide.
Creating workplaces where people feel able to ask for help can make a meaningful difference.
Why are these conversations important?
Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among men in the UK.
Although anyone can experience mental ill health, research consistently shows that men are less likely to seek support, often waiting until they are in crisis before speaking to someone.
There are many reasons for this, including:
- Fear of being judged
- Feeling that they should cope alone
- Concerns about appearing weak
- Worrying about the impact on work or family
The more we normalise conversations about mental health, the easier it becomes for people to ask for help when they need it.
Creating a supportive workplace
A supportive workplace is not one where everyone has the answers—it is one where people feel safe enough to have honest conversations.
Managers and supervisors can help by:
- Checking in with employees regularly
- Listening without judgement
- Encouraging open conversations about wellbeing
- Recognising that changes in behaviour may indicate someone is struggling
- Signposting employees to appropriate support services
- Leading by example and talking positively about mental health
Sometimes simply asking “How are you really doing?” can open the door to an important conversation.
Supporting colleagues
Every employee has a role to play in creating a positive workplace culture.
You don’t need to be a mental health professional to support someone.
You can:
- Notice changes in behaviour
- Ask how someone is doing
- Listen without trying to solve every problem
- Encourage them to seek appropriate support
- Continue checking in after the conversation
Small acts of kindness and genuine concern can make a significant difference.
If someone needs immediate help
If someone is in immediate danger or you believe they are at risk of harming themselves, treat the situation as an emergency and contact the appropriate emergency services.
If someone is struggling but not in immediate danger, encourage them to speak to their GP or contact a specialist support organisation such as:
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
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.
Building a culture that lasts all year
International Men’s Day is an opportunity to start conversations—but supporting mental health should not be limited to one day each year.
Workplaces that promote kindness, openness and psychological safety throughout the year are more likely to have employees who feel comfortable raising concerns before they become overwhelming.
Creating that culture benefits everyone, regardless of gender.
Related resources
Documents
Need more help?
Supporting mental health in the workplace starts with creating an environment where people feel respected, valued and able to ask for help when they need it.
The Health & Safety Portal provides practical resources to help businesses promote positive wellbeing, including mental health policies, e-learning courses and toolbox talks designed to encourage open conversations and support a healthier workplace culture.
Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes listening, showing compassion and helping someone access the right support can make all the difference.