4 Types of Mental Health Support and Resources for Men

Mental health affects people of all genders, but men are often less likely to seek help. In fact, the number of men with mental health issues who don’t seek help is so high that mental health experts are calling it a type of “silent crisis.”

Here, we’ll look at the factors that affect men’s mental health and why male-dedicated spaces may help you find the support you need. And we’ll list helpful resources, including support groups and organizations that promote men’s mental health.

Common mental health issues for men

In developed countries, about three times as many men die by suicide as women. And men are more likely than women to misuse drugs and alcohol, and to die from alcohol-related causes. 

Women in the U.S. are around 1.5 times more likely than men to receive mental health treatment in a 12-month period. And research from Australia and the United Kingdom also shows women are more likely to receive mental health help than men.

According to Mental Health America, the five leading mental health issues for men in the U.S. are:

1. Depression: Over 6 million men suffer from depression each year, but it often goes undiagnosed.

2. Panic and anxiety disorders: Over 3 million men have panic disorder or a phobia.

3. Bipolar disorder: Over 1 million men develop bipolar disorder, typically between ages 16 and 25.

4. Schizophrenia: Out of all people diagnosed with schizophrenia by age 30, around 90% are men.

Eating disorders: Among those who have an eating disorder, roughly 10% of people with anorexia or bulimia are men

Factors that impact men’s mental health 

Research on suicide, depression, and substance use shows that many factors contribute to men’s mental health issues. The most common risk factors include:

• Unemployment or job insecurity

• Working in a dangerous job

• Loss of job opportunities in dying manual industries, like factories and mines

• Lower wage earnings

• Lower education levels

• Divorce, separation, or loss of a partner

• Loss of child custody

• Childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences

• Grief

• Disability

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Why are male-only mental health spaces helpful?

Men want support and connection from friends and family members, but they may fear being seen as weak and unmasculine, shows the study “Death Rather Than Disclosure: Struggling to be a Real Man.” One way to feel more comfortable talking about your mental health — and get the support you need — is to find resources dedicated to men.

A male-only mental health space lets you connect with others who get where you’re coming from. This may make it easier to let down your guard and openly talk about what you’re going through.

According to one small study, social connections and support networks can have several benefits for men, including:

• Soften the impact of stressful experiences

• Curb the onset of depression and suicidal thoughts

• Drive men to get professional help 

Below you’ll find a list of resources, support groups, and ways to search for professional help that is tailored to men. 

Mental health resources for men

Mental health resources for men range from online and in-person support groups to organizations dedicated to improving men’s mental health. Exploring these options may help you get the support and treatment you need to tackle a mental health issue you’re facing.  

4. Mental health crisis resources

Help is just a phone call or text away if you’re dealing with a mental health crisis. Contact one of the resources below to speak with a trained counselor or get a referral for help in your area:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or 1-888-628-9454 for En Español if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts.

• Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor.

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: Call 1-800-622-4357 for referrals to treatment centers, support groups, and community mental health agencies.

• "Navigating a Mental Health Crisis" guide: Download the free guide put together by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

The bottom line

You don’t have to face depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue alone. Trained professionals and other men who have faced similar struggles are readily available to help you. Resources include support groups, discussion forums, and therapists who are trained in men’s issues. 

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Ana Gascon

Ana Gascon has over 15 years of writing and editing experience, with 8 years in health and medical content work. She is a content creator who focuses on acute conditions, chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and health equity.

Edited by:

Samvida Patel, MNSP, INHC

Samvida Patel, MNSP, INHC, is a health editor at GoodRx. She is a nutritionist and integrative nutrition health coach with over 8 years of experience in health communications.

Reviewed by:

Mona Bapat, PhD, HSPP

Mona Bapat, PhD, HSPP, has 15 years of clinical experience providing therapy. She is a licensed clinical psychologist in Indiana and Illinois with treatment experience in individual, couples, family, and group therapy modalities.

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If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, you’re not alone and help is available. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “HOME” to 741-741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.