Men’s Mental Health: Coping Strategies and the Importance of Reaching Out

Men’s mental health is one close to my heart and a topic that’s often brushed under the carpet, yet it’s an issue that affects millions across the UK every day. The statistics are hard to ignore with three quarters of suicides in the UK being by men, and it remains the leading cause of death for men under 50. Over 4,000 men take their own lives each year in the UK, a number that highlights the pressing need for serious change. Despite this huge number, men are significantly less likely to access mental health support than women, with only 36% of NHS talking therapy referrals being male and for many, the idea of opening up about their struggles feels like an insurmountable challenge.

Take Tom, for example. Tom is in his late 30s, a husband, a father of two, and a manager in his company. On the outside, he looks like he has it all together; the house, the career, the family life, the car and even a great social life. But what his colleagues and even his family don’t see are the sleepless nights, the constant pressure to provide, and the nagging voice in his head telling him he’s not good enough. When he started feeling a tightness in his chest and a sense of dread every morning, he shrugged it off as stress, and it wasn’t until he broke down in front of a friend that he realised he needed help.

Tom’s story is far from unique. Many men carry an unspoken burden, feeling as though admitting to mental health struggles would make them weak, this ingrained belief being rooted in societal expectations; the idea that men should be stoic, self-reliant, and always in control. Research from Movember, the global men’s health charity, highlights this further with 58% of men surveyed feeling that society expects them to be emotionally strong, while 38% believe they would be ridiculed for seeking help.

But these outdated notions come at a cost. Bottling up emotions can and generally do lead to anxiety, depression, physical health problems like high blood pressure, and in some cases, tragic outcomes. Studies also show that men often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like excessive drinking or substance use, rather than seeking support, which further compounds the problem.

The good news is that mental health, like physical health, can be improved with the right support and strategies. For Tom, the first step was opening up to someone he trusted. That conversation didn’t solve everything, but it was the catalyst for change.

Exercise became a vital part of his routine, not just for the physical benefits but for the mental clarity it provided. He started running in the evenings, finding comfort in the rhythm of his steps and the fresh air. He also began practising mindfulness with simple techniques like focusing on his breath or noticing the details around him during a walk. Research supports this approach, with studies from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) showing that regular exercise and mindfulness can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Social connection played a crucial role too. Tom made an effort to spend more time with friends that he could actually talk to, even if it was just meeting for a coffee or a quick catch-up. He realised that being around others helped him feel less isolated and importantly, he also sought professional help. Talking to a therapist allowed him to unpack his thoughts in a safe space and gain tools to manage his mental health more effectively, whilst understanding his past and goals.

This brings us to the importance of reaching out. For many men, the idea of asking for help feels foreign, or even intimidating. But reaching out doesn’t have to be a grand gesture, it can start with a text to a friend, a conversation with a partner, or exploring resources like counselling or self-help tools. There’s no right or wrong way to ask for support, as long as you take that first step.

One resource that’s breaking down barriers and making help more accessible is the LADZ app. Our Mission Is Simple: To Reduce The Male Suicide Rate is firmly on the website Founded by Scott, who faced his own mental health challenges, the app is designed specifically for men, bringing together mental health advice, therapy resources, and physical health tools in one place. Scott’s struggles with anxiety and depression inspired him to create a platform that simplifies access to support, recognising that the first step can be the hardest. The app offers a safe, judgment-free space where men can connect with therapists, read real-life stories, and access practical strategies to improve their well-being. It also bridges the gap between mental and physical health, recognising how deeply intertwined they are.

The statistics around men’s mental health are stark with three in five UK men say they regularly feel worried or stressed, according to a survey by YouGov – but they don’t have to define the future. Platforms like LADZ make it easier to take that first step and connect with resources tailored to men’s needs.

For men like Tom, platforms like LADZ can be a game-changer. They provide the support needed to start conversations, whether that’s with a professional, a friend, or even within oneself. Reaching out doesn’t just help the individual, it can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of openness and understanding. Mental health struggles don’t define a person, but how they respond to those struggles can shape their journey. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward healing. Whether it’s through a trusted friend, a professional, or a resource like the LADZ app, taking that first step could be the most significant thing you do for yourself.

So, if you or someone you know is struggling, take that step. Talk to someone. Seek support. Because no one should have to face these challenges alone, and help is closer than you think.

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