Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month
On the Blog
November is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
As we embrace November and reflect on Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s time to open our hearts and minds to the mental health struggles men face—struggles that often remain silent but impact families, friendships, and communities deeply. Across the United States, suicide continues to be the second leading cause of death among men under 45. This painful reality underscores the mental health crisis that many men face and highlights the critical need to address these challenges with empathy, understanding, and unwavering support. While much attention often goes toward physical health, mental well-being deserves an equal, if not greater, spotlight.
For many men, seeking help is made more difficult by the weight of societal stigma, a burden that tells them they must face their struggles alone, suppress their feelings, and “tough it out.” We see this message echoed throughout media, cultural norms, and even well-meaning advice passed down through generations. The pressure to appear “strong” by society's standards often discourages men from reaching out and talking openly about their experiences. But at our organization, we believe that true strength is not defined by silence or stoicism; rather, it is shown through the courage to be vulnerable, to seek help, and to forge connections with others.
The belief that “real men don’t cry” or that “vulnerability is weakness” couldn’t be further from the truth. True strength is displayed in the courage it takes to ask for support, to be honest about one’s struggles, and to break free from the limiting beliefs that isolate men from the help they deserve. We know that taking this step can be daunting, especially in a world that still, too often, sends the message that mental health struggles are something to hide. And yet, by embracing vulnerability, men open doors to healing not only for themselves but also for those who look up to them—children, partners, friends, and family members who see them as role models.
Men who choose to seek mental health support become powerful agents of change. They help shift the narrative, setting a precedent for younger generations and their peers alike. By speaking out about their experiences, they encourage others to take that same courageous step, creating a ripple effect of empathy, understanding, and healing that benefits entire communities. This cycle of openness and connection breaks down the barriers of stigma, reminding everyone that mental health care is as vital as physical health care. Men who seek help and openly discuss their mental health not only embark on a journey of personal healing but also pave the way for a society where mental health support is embraced and valued for everyone.
This Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we honor the men who choose to step forward with courage. We honor the men who recognize that reaching out is not a sign of weakness but a testament to resilience and self-respect. We honor every man who decides to let down his guard, share his story, and, in doing so, empower others to follow his example.
Let’s join together to create a culture where men feel safe, seen, and valued. Let’s build a community that stands firm against stigma and actively promotes mental health as a priority for all. Every man deserves to be heard, to be supported, and to know that his mental well-being is a priority. This November, and every month, we celebrate the strength in vulnerability and the power of connection, working together to ensure that every man can find the support he needs to heal, grow, and thrive.
In honor of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re offering anyone free phone mental health screenings and consultation with our compassionate providers. We invite you to take advantage of this opportunity or to share it with someone who might benefit. These screenings are safe, confidential, and heart-centered, designed to create a welcoming space for anyone ready to explore their mental health journey, and ask about therapy, evaluation, or medication.
To connect with us, visit www.malafamily.org. Click on RESOURCES, select Client Portal, then I'm A New Client to request an appointment.
Or simply follow this link: https://hasti-raveau.clientsecure.me/request/clinician.
How to Support Men Who May Be Struggling
If there’s a man in your life who’s facing challenges, here are some meaningful ways to show up and support him:
Open the Conversation Gently – Sometimes, the most powerful way to begin is to simply ask, “How are you, really?” Keep your tone open and non-judgmental. Let him know that he’s safe to express himself however he feels comfortable.
Listen Without Trying to “Fix” – Men often face pressure to solve problems, and they may feel that sharing struggles could be a burden. Just listening and validating his feelings without offering solutions can create a safe space for him to open up more.
Encourage Professional Support – Let him know that reaching out for help is a sign of courage, not weakness. Offer to support him in finding resources or making an appointment, like the free screenings we’re offering at Mala. Gentle encouragement without pressure can make a big difference.
Be Present and Patient – Healing takes time, and everyone’s journey is different. Small acts, like inviting him to join you in an activity he enjoys or simply spending time together, can be a subtle but effective way to show you’re there for him.
Model Openness – Share your own experiences and challenges, if you’re comfortable. This normalizes talking about mental health and may help him feel more at ease sharing his own story.
