Each year, in Canada, around 75% of all suicide victims are men.

Mental health and mental illnesses affect people of all genders. Everybody needs to take care of their mental health and seek support if they need it. However, due to harmful societal expectations, men are often discouraged from doing so: they are told to “man up” and that “boys don’t cry.” Such stigma around emotions and mental health for men creates a barrier between men and the help they need.

This June, pay attention to the men in your life. Check in with them, and encourage them to reach out if they are struggling. If you think someone may need professional counseling, sit with them and help them find the resources that could help. Please do not hesitate to sign up for MHS’s Peer Support Calls if you need help navigating mental health services.

Find more resources at Canadian Mental Health Association.

Read more: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Men, by the Mental Health Commission of Canada

Men’s Mental Health, by the Canadian Mental Health Association