A topic that isn’t acknowledged enough by the public is that of men’s mental health. With June coming up and being Men’s Health Month, it’s the perfect time to talk about an issue that’s often been ignored. Dating back to long-standing social standards, men have often been expected to be these impenetrable machines — always in control. This expectation is so apparent in society that phrases like “man up” are commonly used, further reinforcing the idea that vulnerability is weakness, and it is unmanly to express your emotions.

This kind of mindset can be very dangerous. Stigmas like this teach men to hold in their emotions and deal with their issues alone. Over time, this isolation can become unbearable and lead to issues like depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide. According to the CDC, men account for about 75% of suicide deaths. This is often looked as a reflection of weakness in men; however, it should rather be looked at as the result of a society which discourages honesty and seeking help.

From a young age, many boys are taught to suppress their feelings, often told to be tough and resilient. Although often done with good intention, this internalizes a belief that emotional expression is something to be ashamed of. As a result, males grow up never properly learning how to communicate their emotions, which leads to even further isolation. This kind of abnormality often make it harder to build meaningful connections and seek help or support.

Fixing this issue requires a team effort and applies to everyone, not just men. It must begin to be socially acceptable to be vulnerable and acknowledge our own struggles without shame or the fear. This shift starts with changing how we talk about mental health in homes, schools, and communities. When people feel safe to express their emotions, it creates more genuine connections. Teaching how to express yourself emotionally from a young age, schools incorporating mental health education, and community programs that promote speaking openly can all help break down harmful stigmas.

Mental health is a complex and shared human experience which goes beyond gender. By promoting empathy and open communication, everyone can feel supported. This June as we go through Men’s Health Month, we can be sure to be supportive. Together we can build a future where mental health stigma is gone, and no one has to face their struggles alone.