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Men's mental health: why talking matters

This Men's Mental Health Awareness Month we're exploring 5 ways men can look after their mental health - and they're easier than you'd think!

Content warnings: mentions of suicide


Feeling stressed, low, or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Yet for many men, opening up about mental health can feel difficult. Cultural expectations and stigma often tell men to “tough it out,” but silence can make problems worse.

This November we want to talk about men’s wellbeing and share some practical ways to start the conversation and support yourself or someone you care about beyond Men’s Mental Health Month.

5 free ideas to help you look after your mental health

1. Check in with your mates
A simple chat can make a big difference. If you’re struggling, reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague. If you notice someone else withdrawing or acting differently, ask:
“How have you been feeling lately?”

2. Get it down on paper
Writing things down can help you feel more in control of your thoughts and feelings. Start with one question: “What’s on my mind right now?”

3. Take a breath
Slow, deep breaths help calm the nervous system. Try square breathing: inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, hold for four. Repeat for a few minutes.

4. Get outdoors
Fresh air and movement can give you a mood boost and help you feel less stressed.

5. A problem shared is a problem halved
Talking to people who understand what you’re going through can make a huge difference. See local options below.

In 2023, 74% of suicides in the UK were men*, making it more important than ever to break the silence around men’s mental health.

*Samaritans, Suicides in England 2023

Read Simon's story

‘I have become a voice for mental health lived experience’. Simon talks about how being involved with our lived experience participation project helped rebuild his confidence and shares his messages of hope for World Suicide Prevention Day 2024.

Read Simon's story

Local support for men in Hampshire

• Solent Mind Wellbeing Centres – Safe spaces for mental health support, which includes men’s groups and our Men’s Shed in the New Forest.

• Andy’s Man Club – National charity organising face-to-face meetups every Monday evening.

• ManGang UK – Hampshire-based peer support groups.

• Text ‘HANTS’ to 85258 – Free, confidential 24/7 text support via Shout.

If you are in a mental health crisis, or know someone who is, then click here for some ways you can get urgent help.

Learn more about wellbeing

Our Workplace Wellbeing Training Team provide a cost-effective way to support mental wellbeing both in your workplace and home environment. Whether you'd like to explore challenging conversations, improve your understanding of mental health or become a Suicide Prevention First Aider, our friendly team can help you find the right course to build your confidence in using trusted techniques. 

We are also holding free online sessions to help you manage your wellbeing in the workplace and give you a taste of our full training courses - sign up here.

Find out more

Join the fight for better mental health in Hampshire!

At Solent Mind we want to make sure that anyone with a mental health issue in Hampshire has somewhere to turn to for advice and support, whatever their background or circumstances. Our #MindTheGap campaign is highlighting the barriers of access to mental health support in our region and is asking people in the county to join us in the fight for better mental health.

Read more