Breaking the Silence Around Men’s Mental Health Awareness

This June, in honor of Men’s Health Month and Men’s Mental Health Awareness, BryLin Hospital is raising awareness about the importance of men’s mental health by working to end the stigma, foster understanding, and encourage men to seek the support they deserve.

Mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized topics — especially for men. For far too long, societal expectations have told men to tough it out, suppress emotions, and suffer in silence. This culture of silence has contributed to alarming rates of suicide, substance abuse, and untreated mental health conditions among men.

It’s time to break the cycle.

Sobering Statistics That Demand Attention

• Men account for nearly 75% of all suicides in the U.S.

• Only 35% of men say they would seek help from a mental health professional, compared to 58% of women.

• Men are more likely to be diagnosed with alcohol dependence and antisocial personality disorder.

• Workplace stress and burnout are more frequently reported by men, who also tend to avoid taking mental health days.

• Men are also more prone to engaging in risky behaviors — such as substance abuse and reckless driving — as a coping mechanism.

These statistics are more than just numbers — they represent real lives, real families, and real consequences.

Why Men’s Mental Health Matters

Untreated mental health issues don’t just affect the individual — they ripple outward, impacting relationships, careers, and communities. When mental health conditions go unaddressed:

• Quality of life suffers.

• Physical health declines (with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes).

• Family and professional relationships are strained.

• Hope, motivation, and fulfillment diminish.

By tackling men’s mental health head-on, we create a more equitable, compassionate, and supportive society — one where emotional well-being is prioritized for all, regardless of gender.

What Holds Men Back?

Several key factors contribute to why men are less likely to seek help:

• Societal norms that equate masculinity with emotional suppression.

• Stigma and fear of judgment or shame.

• Lack of awareness about what help is available and how effective it can be.

At BryLin Hospital, we aim to challenge these outdated ideas. We believe that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Men’s Mental Health Awareness: Treatment Options

Help is available — and it works. Here are some evidence-based treatment options that BryLin and other mental health providers offer:

1. Therapy

Talk therapy helps men identify and work through emotional challenges, develop healthy coping strategies, and improve their quality of life. 

2. Medication

Certain medications can be prescribed to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders. 

3. Support Groups

Group therapy and peer-led support groups allow men to share their experiences in a judgment-free space, connect with others facing similar struggles, and receive mutual encouragement.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can significantly improve mental health. Small changes can lead to big results.

5. Advanced Therapies

• • • Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Used for severe depression, ECT uses controlled electrical stimulation under anesthesia to alleviate symptoms. It’s a safe and effective option for treatment-resistant cases.

    • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): An FDA-approved, non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate mood-regulating areas of the brain. 

BryLin Hospital: You’re Not Alone

At BryLin Hospital, we offer specialized, short-term crisis care for children, adolescents, and adults:

• Our Child & Adolescent Program supports youth (ages 5–17) struggling with emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm in a safe, structured setting.

• Our Adult Inpatient Program provides psychiatric stabilization and evidence-based care for individuals 18+ experiencing acute mental health crises.

Our expert team of compassionate professionals is here to help. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Let’s Change the Conversation around Men’s Mental Health

This Men’s Health Month, let’s commit to breaking the silence. Start the conversation. Share this message. Reach out to the men in your life. And if you’re struggling yourself, please remember: you don’t have to face it alone.

Need help now? Call BryLin Hospital at (716) 886-8200 or visit brylin.com.