This International Men’s Day, HR professionals are urged to put in place strategies to support men’s mental health and wellbeing in the workplace – as stigma often keeps men from opening up about their struggles.
Anyone can suffer from poor mental health, regardless of the gender; however, the outcomes for men are often more severe then they are for women. According to suicide prevention charity Samaritans, men are three times more likely than women to die by suicide in England. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that they men die from alcohol-specific causes at almost double the rate.
While 12.5 percent of men in the UK suffering from poor mental health according to the NHS, it’s likely that many cases go unreported as men are far less likely to seek help for their mental health struggles – a factor linked to the increased risk of suicide and alcohol misuse.
As workplaces evolve, HR professionals have a unique opportunity to lead the charge in breaking stigmas around men’s mental health. International SOS, a health and security risk services company, has highlighted key strategies to help.
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Challenging the Stigma
Dr Rodrigo Rodriguez-Fernandez, Global Health Advisor, Wellness & Mental Health at International SOS, said, “Organisations play a pivotal role in dismantling the stigmas surrounding mental health for men and fostering a culture where mental health and wellbeing are prioritised positively impacts workforce productivity and resilience. The global mental health landscape is increasingly complex, with ongoing conflicts and public health crises posing persistent threats to progress.
“International Men’s Day is a timely reminder to acknowledge the significance of men’s mental health and to challenge the stigma that may prevent men from seeking help. Often overlooked, men face unique challenges in seeking and accessing mental health support. Social stigma, fear of judgment and difficulty expressing emotions can hinder their ability to address mental health issues.”
Building a Supportive Work Culture
One effective approach is to create a workplace culture that prioritises mental wellbeing. Organisations can achieve this by promoting work-life balance and incorporating mental health awareness into the workplace through initiatives such as awareness days, stress management workshops, and wellness programmes. A supportive environment encourages employees to prioritise their mental health without fear of judgment.
Open conversations are another critical component. Encouraging employees to discuss mental health openly helps reduce stigma and normalises these discussions. Safe spaces for sharing experiences, complemented by workshops, seminars, or informal group discussions, can further this goal.
Equipping Managers and Leaders
Training managers and leaders is essential for a proactive approach to mental health in the workplace. By equipping leaders with the skills to recognise signs of mental health issues and engage in sensitive conversations, organisations can provide targeted support to employees in need. This includes training managers to offer resources and referrals to professional help when necessary.
Confidential access to mental health professionals is another vital element of a supportive workplace. Employers can provide access through Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), partnerships with mental health organisations, or by offering on-site or virtual counselling sessions. Strict confidentiality protocols should be in place to ensure employees feel secure when seeking help.
Monitoring and Improvement
Continuous assessment of mental health initiatives is crucial. Organisations are encouraged to use tools such as surveys, focus groups, and anonymous feedback channels to gather insights into employee needs and concerns. This data can help refine mental health programmes and ensure they remain relevant and effective.
Dr Rodrigo Rodriguez-Fernandez added, “Workplace stressors, such as excessive workload, lack of control, and insufficient recognition, can exacerbate mental health problems for men. To address these challenges effectively, organisations should prioritise creating supportive and inclusive workplaces that foster understanding and empathy for the workforce’s emotional needs.
“By breaking down stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health, employers can empower individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.”
