Nearly one in ten men in the U.S. face anxiety or depression, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Despite this, experts say many men suffer in silence—often because of outdated beliefs about masculinity.
“Men try to take care of everything; they try to be all to the end all, and it’s not possible,” said Suzanne Opperman, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of breaking the stigma around men asking for help. Talking openly, they say, can ease emotional burdens and encourage healthier coping methods.
“Starting that conversation is powerful,” said Alli Pustelnik, a training and outreach coordinator with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “People often see mental health as a weakness—especially for men—but it’s not.”
Traditional gender roles and social expectations play a major role in preventing men from seeking support.
“It creates this belief that asking for help makes you weak,” Pustelnik explained. “Men think they have to appear strong all the time. The stigma is even heavier for them.”
“Men don’t want to have their thoughts or manhood questioned,” added Opperman.
While therapy can be highly effective, experts acknowledge it may not be the right fit for everyone. That’s why they recommend finding other ways to support mental well-being.
Enjoyable activities—like hobbies or playing sports—can help reduce stress and improve emotional health.
“Things like sports are big in the men’s community,” Pustelnik said. “Finding a place to relax and disconnect is a great way to ease mental strain.”
Experts say that while it may feel difficult, checking in with friends and loved ones is one of the most meaningful steps toward change.
“It’s going under the radar,” Pustelnik said. “Men are a group that’s quietly struggling, and it’s time we start talking about it.”
