November marks Movember, a month dedicated to men’s health. It’s a chance to have important conversations, challenge outdated ideas and take steps towards better health and wellbeing.
We sat down with Tracey Paxton, Clinical Director at Perkbox, to discuss how we can all play a part in supporting men’s health at work and beyond.
Despite greater awareness, men are still less likely than women to use mental health services. Often this comes down to it feeling hard to ask for help, even for those who would happily support others.
Many men have grown up with an idea of “being a man” that’s self-reliant and emotionally restrained. These expectations can make expressing vulnerability or emotions feel uncomfortable, or even unacceptable.
When these ideas become extreme, harmful stereotypes around masculinity can discourage men from expressing fear or sadness, leaving them to face a range of challenges like anxiety, depression or relationship strain alone.
Stigma can silence people. Negative assumptions around mental health can lead to discrimination, avoidance or rejection. Self-stigma, where men take these perceptions and internalise them, can create feelings of shame and stop men from reaching out for help.
In some communities, there’s also cultural stigma or distrust of healthcare systems, which can make it harder to seek support. Together, these pressures can leave men feeling even more isolated and unsupported.
Encourage men to speak to someone they trust. In the workplace, this might be a supportive colleague, a mentor, or their manager. Even having a small conversation can prevent things from becoming bigger problems further on.
Set clear boundaries. Support realistic workloads and encourage people to recognise when they need a break.
Signpost to your Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). EAPs offer confidential, clinically led support, with access to counselling and resources that can really help when times are tough.
Nurture peer support. Creating communities and supportive networks at work helps normalise discussions around wellbeing.
The most important thing is to talk openly. Share how you’re feeling with your partner, family or friends. Even small conversations can lift a huge emotional weight.
Build resilience by establishing healthy routines, like regular exercise, a good night’s sleep, and balanced diet.
Have regular check ins with yourself – reflect on how you are feeling and act early if you notice stress or low mood persists.
And remember, know when to seek professional help – after all, asking for help isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength.
When men need help, it can be subtle or understated. It means that even with the best intentions, men don’t always get the level of support they need.
By making space and addressing the barriers to support, employers can make a real difference in supporting men to express how they’re feeling and access the care they need.
Movember is about much more than the moustache. It’s a reminder to prioritise wellbeing, challenge outdated norms and create a culture where men feel safe to share how they really feel.
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