June Is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month: Why It Matters & How to Support Mental Well-being from a Clinical Psychologist Perspective

June is recognized as Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the silence, challenging stigma, and encouraging men to take charge of their mental well-being. Despite growing awareness around mental health, many men still struggle in silence due to societal expectations, gender norms, and a lack of accessible support.

The Silent Crisis in Men’s Mental Health

Statistically, men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues. The CDC reports that while men die by suicide at a rate four times higher than women, they are far less likely to receive a diagnosis for depression or anxiety. This disconnect is not due to a lack of need, but often a lack of expression.

From a Clinical Psychologist's perspective, it's crucial to understand that men's mental health is complex, deeply influenced by cultural messages around masculinity, and often under-addressed in healthcare settings.

Here are evidence-based strategies and insights from clinical psychology that can help men manage and improve their mental health:

1. Normalize Emotions & Reframe Masculinity

Acknowledge that feeling anxious, sad, or overwhelmed doesn't make you weak. Reframe strength as the ability to be vulnerable and seek help when needed. Journaling emotions or speaking openly in safe spaces can be a strong first step.

“Emotion regulation is not about suppressing feelings—it's about recognizing and navigating them effectively.”

2. Practice Preventive Mental Health Care

Just like routine physical check-ups, schedule regular mental check-ins. Use apps like Moodfit, Headspace, or a simple daily 1-10 mood rating system to track mental shifts.

Preventative care includes sleep hygiene, nutrition, physical activity, and social interaction—all shown in psychological studies to significantly affect mood and stress levels.

3. Make Movement a Priority

Incorporate physical activity into your weekly routine. Try “movement therapy” like walking meetings, boxing, or hiking—activities that allow emotional release through physical exertion.

Exercise increases dopamine and serotonin levels, improving emotional resilience and reducing symptoms of depression.

4. Challenge Cognitive Distortions

Learn to identify “thinking traps” like catastrophizing, black-and-white thinking, or minimizing emotions. Use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) techniques like journaling, thought logs, or talking it through with a mental health coach or therapist. Changing thought patterns can rewire the brain for greater emotional balance.

5. Build a Supportive Inner Circle

Cultivate relationships with friends or family members who support open dialogue. Initiate meaningful conversations by asking, “How are you really doing?”—This normalizes deeper discussions.

Men often report feeling isolated, even when socially connected. A strong support network can act as a buffer against mental health challenges.

6. Seek Professional Support Without Shame

Therapy isn’t just for crisis, it's for clarity, growth, and prevention. Look for male-friendly therapy platforms or therapists who understand male-specific struggles, such as performance pressure or fatherhood stress. Teletherapy and text-based options are now widely available and often more accessible.

Words for the Men Reading This

You are not alone. Your feelings are valid. Taking care of your mental health is one of the most powerful acts of strength you can perform, not just for yourself, but for your family, your work, and your future.

We are here to help and support you! Please email: beginningwithyou.nyc@gmail.com with any questions.