Find helplines for both UK and USA below. Don’t feel you are alone.
In November, we celebrate Men’s Mental Health Month—a time to shine a light on men’s wellness, encourage open conversations, and address health concerns that might otherwise go unspoken. It’s a call to action for all men to embrace their well-being, from physical ailments to mental resilience, and know they’re not alone. The origins of Men’s Mental Health Month began in 2003 in Australia, with the Movember Foundation launching a campaign that invited men to grow moustaches as a symbol of support for men’s health. Since then, the campaign has spread globally, promoting awareness of both physical and mental health issues, and encouraging men to take proactive steps toward self-care. Although the moustaches remain iconic, the message has grown much bigger: it’s about knowing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Men’s mental health is particularly crucial, as statistics consistently show higher rates of suicide and mental health challenges among men. The reasons are complex—social expectations and stigmas often discourage men from expressing vulnerability, creating a culture where emotional pain is sometimes hidden or ignored. It’s important to know that mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress aren’t weaknesses or personal failings. They’re real conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of background. If left unaddressed, these issues can lead to feelings of isolation, impacting relationships, work, and overall quality of life. Opening up, whether to friends, family, or a therapist, can be a transformative step toward healing. Even talking about worries in a casual setting can reduce mental load and create a sense of shared understanding. It’s okay—and more than okay—to ask for help.
Physical health is equally essential, and there are specific concerns that men should watch out for as they age. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among men worldwide, but it’s also largely preventable. A simple annual check-up can measure blood pressure, cholesterol, and other indicators, catching any risks early. Early detection of prostate cancer is also vital, with regular screenings recommended after a certain age, especially for those with a family history of the disease. Testicular cancer, although less common, is often seen in younger men and can be successfully treated if detected early. Men should also be mindful of diabetes, a condition that often develops without obvious symptoms but can lead to severe health complications if not managed.
These conditions might seem intimidating, but awareness and action are key to prevention and management. Routine screenings, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and quitting smoking are practical steps that can greatly reduce health risks. These are small but powerful changes that can make a big difference. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it—seek advice. A simple conversation with a healthcare professional could be the start of a longer, healthier life.
Men’s Mental Health Month encourages everyone to think differently about what it means to be strong. Real strength lies in knowing when to lean on others, when to prioritize self-care, and when to take charge of one’s well-being. This November, let’s break the silence, challenge the stigma, and remind ourselves that health is a journey we’re all allowed—and encouraged—to prioritize.
Love Life x
References
- Movember Foundation: https://movember.com
- National Institute of Mental Health: https://nimh.nih.gov
- American Heart Association: https://heart.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://cdc.gov
Here are some key mental health helplines available in the UK:
- Samaritans
- Contact: 116 123 (24/7, free from any phone)
- Website: samaritans.org
- A confidential helpline providing emotional support for anyone struggling to cope.
- Mind
- Contact: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm)
- Website: mind.org.uk
- Offers advice and support for mental health issues, with information about services and help available in your area.
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
- Contact: 0800 58 58 58 (5pm to midnight daily)
- Website: thecalmzone.net
- Focuses on preventing suicide among men and offers support through helplines, webchat, and online resources.
- Shout
- Contact: Text “SHOUT” to 85258 (24/7)
- Website: giveusashout.org
- A free text messaging service providing support for anyone in a mental health crisis.
- Rethink Mental Illness
- Contact: 0300 5000 927 (Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4pm)
- Website: rethink.org
- Offers support and information for people affected by mental illness.
- The Mix
- Contact: 0808 808 4994 (for under-25s, open 4pm to 11pm daily)
- Website: themix.org.uk
- Provides a wide range of support services for young people under 25, including mental health support, online chat, and a crisis messenger.
These helplines are here to help you or anyone you know who may be struggling. Don’t hesitate to reach out, as support is just a call or message away.
Here are some key mental health helplines in the USA that offer support for various mental health challenges:
Here are some mental health helplines in the USA that offer free, confidential support:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- Phone: 988
- Website: 988lifeline.org
- Available 24/7 for crisis support and suicide prevention. The Lifeline connects you with trained counselors who can provide support and resources.
- Crisis Text Line
- Text: Text “HELLO” to 741741
- Website: crisistextline.org
- Provides free, 24/7 support via text. This service is for anyone in crisis who needs immediate help with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline
- Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Website: samhsa.gov
- A free, confidential helpline that offers treatment referral and information on mental health and substance abuse, available 24/7 in English and Spanish.
- Veterans Crisis Line
- Phone: 988, then press 1
- Text: Text to 838255
- Website: veteranscrisisline.net
- Specifically for veterans, active-duty military, and their families to provide support and mental health resources.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline
- Phone: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
- Website: nami.org
- Offers support, information, and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges and their families. Not a crisis line, but a helpful resource for navigating mental health services.
- Trevor Project Lifeline (for LGBTQ+ Youth)
- Phone: 1-866-488-7386
- Text: Text “START” to 678678
- Website: thetrevorproject.org
- Provides 24/7 crisis intervention and support for LGBTQ+ youth.
These helplines offer compassionate, professional support and guidance for anyone struggling or in crisis, whether related to mental health, substance use, trauma, or other life challenges.