Across the U.S., many boys and young men are feeling lonely, disconnected, and unsure of where they belong. Studies show that they are less likely to seek mental health help, yet they are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, experts are urging families, educators, and mentors to take action.
Popular media like Netflix’s Adolescence and books like The Anxious Generation highlight the rising emotional struggles of young men. Experts say it’s time to make them a bigger part of the mental health conversation.
Why Boys Are Often Left Out of Mental Health Support
For years, traditional ideas about masculinity have led many to believe that boys should be “tough” and not talk about their feelings. As a result, boys are often overlooked when it comes to emotional support. Meanwhile, harmful online content is filling that gap, drawing them toward negative behaviors.
“Helping boys means giving them positive role models and tools to build healthy relationships,” says Brian O’Connor, vice president at Futures Without Violence, a nonprofit focused on creating safe, healthy communities.
Programs That Make a Difference
Futures Without Violence has been leading programs for nearly 40 years. One of its latest efforts is Team: Changing Minds (T:CM)—a national initiative that trains adults like coaches, teachers, and mentors to spot signs of mental distress in boys. The program began with a $5 million grant and has already trained over 80,000 adults, aiming to reach over 1 million youth by next year.
These programs are based on one key idea: the people already in a young person’s life can make a big difference.
Four Ways You Can Help Today
You don’t have to be a mental health expert to support the boys and young men around you. Here are four simple steps anyone can take:
1. Ask Questions
Start conversations by asking simple, caring questions. Notice changes in behavior and show you’re paying attention. For example: “You’ve seemed quiet lately—everything okay?”
2. Listen with Empathy
Listen to understand, not just to respond. Show that you care, and they may feel more comfortable opening up.
3. Ask for Help
You’re not expected to do everything alone. Turn to professionals like school counselors, pediatricians, or mental health services when needed.
4. Know Where to Turn in a Crisis
If someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent support, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in becoming a trained adult through Team: Changing Minds, visit teamchangingminds.org. To learn more about the broader mental health crisis facing young men, explore futureswithoutviolence.org.
“Everyday actions matter,” says O’Connor. “When we support young men to lead, listen, and care, we create stronger and safer communities for everyone.”
Read more:
- How To Deal With Shyness And Social Anxiety?
- 7 Effective Ways To Deal With High-Functioning Anxiety
- How Do You Know If Your Antidepressant Is Working?
