June 28, 2026

"Boys Don't Cry": Why Men's Mental Health Matters

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We often hear phrases like “boys don’t cry” on TV, on social media, at school, and sometimes even at home. While these words may seem harmless, such dismissive messages can make it harder for men to ask for support when they need it.

Mental health affects everyone, including men. Yet many men feel pressure to appear strong, handle challenges on their own, or avoid talking about emotional struggles. This can make it more difficult to reach out for help.

Why it Matters

In 2024, the suicide rate for men was nearly 4 times higher than the rate among women. Yet men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health. Common reasons include fear of being judged as less masculine, worrying that asking for help may be seen as a sign of weakness, and fearing negative judgment from peers, family, and society.

But asking for help is not a weakness—it’s a sign of self-awareness.

Mental health challenges are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of.

Signs to Look Out For

If you notice any of the following in yourself or someone you care about, consider reaching out for professional help:

  • Feeling more angry, irritable, or aggressive than usual
  • Changes in mood, energy levels, or appetite
  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than normal
  • Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or constantly on edge
  • Frequent stress, worry, or anxiety
  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs to cope
  • Ongoing sadness or feelings of hopelessness
  • Feeling emotionally numb or having trouble enjoying things that once felt meaningful
  • Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, relationships, family life, or daily activities
  • Thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm

Free Resources Available to Help You

You do not have to wait until something feels seriously wrong to ask for help. Support and resources are available.

Check Yourself Tool: The Check Yourself tool helps you check in on your mental health and create a personalized plan to support your well-being. You can also learn about our free resources, including wellness workshops, calming techniques, and ways to connect for additional help. Click here for the Check Yourself tool.

Event Finder: Our Event Finder helps you locate free health resources and community events near you. We host events such as our UNSTOPPABLE workshops, which provide free information on topics like self-care, health, and wellness. Click here to find an event near you.

Resource Directory: Looking for additional support? Our Resource Directory includes information about local organizations and community partners that offer help with:

  • Health services
  • Mental health support
  • Housing resources
  • Community assistance programs

Click here for our Resource Directory.

Need immediate help? If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. This service is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

The Bottom Line

Just as it’s normal to feel happiness, excitement, or joy, it’s also normal to experience things like sadness, stress, or worry. These feelings are part of being human and are nothing to be ashamed of.

You do not have to manage difficult feelings alone. Support is available, and reaching out can make a difference.

Talk with a healthcare professional to learn more about available resources and support options.

Your mental health matters to us, and together, we can be unstoppable!

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Suicide Data and Statistics. Published May 20, 2026. Accessed June 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/data/index.html
  2. Mokhwelepa LW, Sumbane GO. Men’s Mental Health Matters: The Impact of Traditional Masculinity Norms on Men’s Willingness to Seek Mental Health Support; a Systematic Review of Literature. Am J Mens Health. 2025;19(3):15579883251321670. doi:10.1177/15579883251321670
  3. Staiger T, Stiawa M, Mueller-Stierlin AS, et al. Masculinity and Help-Seeking Among Men With Depression: A Qualitative Study. Front Psychiatry. 2020;11:599039. Published 2020 Nov 24. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2020.599039
  4. Wang PS, Aguilar-Gaxiola S, Alonso J, et al. Use of mental health services for anxiety, mood, and substance disorders in 17 countries in the WHO world mental health surveys. Lancet. 2007;370(9590):841-850. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(07)61414-7
  5. National Institute of Mental Health. Men and Mental Health. Updated May, 2024. Accessed June 17, 2026. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health
  6. 988 Lifeline. Accessed June 18, 2026. http://988lifeline.org

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