Breaking The Silence During Men’s Mental Health Month

At Melo Technology, we believe that mental well-being is just as critical as physical health. This June, we join a vital conversation by spotlighting Men’s Mental Health Month. It’s a time dedicated to raising awareness, breaking down stigma and promoting resources that help men lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Men often face unique mental health challenges. Many of them go unnoticed or unspoken due to societal expectations. The traditional image of masculinity often discourages emotional openness and vulnerability. This leads many men to suffer in silence rather than seek the support they need.

Sobering statistics highlight the need to focus on men’s mental health.

Depression and anxiety affect millions of men across North America. However, they are significantly less likely to seek help compared to women. Social stigma and gender norms often prevent men from reaching out. They also tend to be hesitant to express their feelings or even recognize symptoms of mental health issues. As a result, too many men push through pain alone, believing they must appear “strong” or “in control” – even when they’re struggling inside.

“On average, approximately 4,000 Canadians die by suicide every year — about 11 suicides per 100,000 people in Canada,” reports The Canadian Encyclopedia, “This rate is higher for men and among Indigenous communities. Suicide is usually the result of a combination of factors; these can include addiction and mental illness (especially depression), physical deterioration, financial difficulties, marriage breakdown and lack of social and medical support.”

Mental health challenges are not signs of weakness.

This June, we’re encouraging everyone to take proactive steps to support the men in their lives. The first step is to check in regularly with your loved ones. Ask the men around you how they’re doing. Be genuine about it too. Go beyond surface-level conversations and let them know it’s safe to share.

It’s also helpful to support healthy practices. Balanced nutrition, regular exercise and quality sleep are pillars of good mental health. Perhaps you can help cook a healthy meal, go for a jog or unplug from screens together. Promoting outdoor time and social connection can be a big help in reducing stress and improving mood. Suggest a walk in the park, a weekend hike or even a lunch break outside. Encourage meaningful social interactions that go deeper than small talk.

Mental health should be a workplace priority.

As a tech and communications provider, Melo Technology works closely with business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals who wear many hats. The pressure to succeed, manage teams and adapt to constant change can take a heavy toll. This is especially true for men who may feel they have to “power through” silently.

We urge business leaders to foster supportive workplace cultures where mental health is openly discussed. It’s important to offer flexibility for work-life balance. Normalize mental health resources by sharing information about employee assistance programs (EAPs), counselling or wellness services.

It’s okay to not be okay and it’s courageous to ask for help.

Mental health struggles don’t discriminate by age, profession or background. This Men’s Mental Health Month, let’s come together to break the silence, end the stigma and create a culture where men are supported, heard and valued. For more information about Men’s Mental Health Month and how you can support the mental health of your loved ones, visit the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation website.