Over the last few years, conversations about mental health have become more common, open, and supportive. Due to this positive shift, more men are recognising when they need help and are starting to reach out for support. But there is still a long way to go. According to Beyond Blue, only 37% or men seek mental health support when they need it. Which means that most men who are struggling are trying to deal with it alone.
Why don’t men reach out?
For many men asking for help can feel uncomfortable or shameful. Traditional ideas about masculinity often send the message that men should be tough, self-reliant, and emotionally controlled. Vulnerability can be mistaken for weakness and emotional struggles are often minimised with people replying with phrases like “just push through” or “man up”.
The broader conversation around toxic masculinity has helped challenge some of these ideas. More men are starting to recognise that bottling things up, withdrawing from others, or relying on other unhealthy coping strategies can do more hard than good.
In Australia, 7 out of 9 people who die by suicide are men. That is a confronting statistic but it also clearly highlights why open conversations and early support can be so important.
Recognising the signs
Mental health struggles don’t always look the same from person to person. Some men may not talk openly about feeling depressed or anxious, but changes in behaviour can still become noticeable.
Some common signs to watch out for may include –
Behaviours
- Difficulty getting work or daily tasks done
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Increased reliance on alcohol or drugs
- Trouble concentrating
- Loss of interest in hobbies or other activities they enjoyed
Thoughts
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Feelings of failure
- Intense disappointment in oneself
- Thoughts like “life isn’t worth living”
- Believing people would be better off without them
If you notice these signs in yourself or someone you care about, don’t ignore them. Mental health difficulties are common and treatable. They’re nothing to be ashamed of.
The right support
Reaching out for help can feel like the hardest step, but it’s often the one that starts meaningful change. The right psychologist can provide strategies, emotional support, and a safe place to talk without judgement.
At Adelaide Psychological Services, we can connect you with a registered psychologist who is the right fit for your needs. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or simply feeling overwhelmed, support is available for you.
The first step
You don’t have to handle this alone. Call (08) 8295 4150 or email info@psychadelaide.com.au to book an appointment or learn more about how we can help.
And if you’re supporting someone else, listening without judgment and encouraging professional help can make a real difference.
