Promoting Men’s Mental Health in the Workplace

The statistics are striking:

• Approximately one in five men die before the age of 65 due to preventable illnesses.

• Only around 20% of men seek professional help for mental health concerns.

These numbers highlight a critical issue: many men feel unable to discuss their health challenges, often fearing judgement or potential negative impacts on their careers. Employers have a unique opportunity to create a supportive environment that encourages men to prioritise their health—both physical and mental.

How Employers Can Make a Difference

1. Raise Awareness of Men’s Health Issues

Provide information and resources about common men’s health concerns, such as heart disease, prostate health, diabetes, and mental health. Consider hosting lunchtime talks, webinars, or sharing educational material through internal communications. Awareness campaigns can encourage men to seek advice or screenings before problems escalate.

2. Reduce the Stigma Around Mental Health

Open, honest conversations about mental health should be normalised. Sharing real stories, highlighting success stories of men who have sought support, and actively encouraging dialogue can break down barriers. A stigma-free workplace can make men more likely to seek help when needed.

3. Foster a Supportive Culture

Managers and team leaders play a vital role in setting the tone. Encourage a culture where employees feel safe discussing health concerns without fear of negative repercussions. Celebrate initiatives that promote wellbeing and integrate health and wellbeing into company values and everyday practices.

4. Offer Confidential Support

Introduce or promote a private Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) where employees can access counselling, advice, and health information confidentially. Make sure employees know that these services are available, fully confidential, and accessible without judgement.

5. Train Managers to Support Health Needs

Equip managers with the knowledge and skills to recognise signs of health issues, provide appropriate support, and direct employees to resources. Training should cover both physical and mental health challenges and emphasise empathy, confidentiality, and practical support options.

6. Encourage Participation in Men’s Health Initiatives

Promote events such as Men’s Health Week (9 – 15 June 2025) within your organisation. Encourage employees to participate in activities, screenings, or awareness campaigns. Small initiatives such as step challenges, wellbeing workshops, or health screenings can make a tangible difference.

7. Provide Flexible Options for Health Appointments

Ensure employees can attend medical appointments or therapy sessions without stress or penalty. Flexible working hours or personal time off for health reasons can support men in prioritising their wellbeing.

8. Integrate Men’s Health into Wider Wellbeing Strategies

Men’s health should not be a one-off campaign—it should be part of a broader organisational wellbeing strategy. Include regular check-ins, wellbeing challenges, and initiatives targeting nutrition, exercise, mental health, and lifestyle management.

By actively supporting men’s health in the workplace, employers can reduce preventable illness, improve mental wellbeing, boost engagement, and create a culture of care and inclusivity.