This Movember, let’s broaden the conversation about what mental health struggles can look like in men.
Every November, Movember brings greater attention to men’s health, including an important conversation about mental well-being.
But recognizing when someone is struggling isn’t always straightforward. Mental health challenges don’t always look like openly expressing sadness or asking for help. Sometimes, they can show up in ways that are easier to dismiss or explain away.
A man who is struggling may still go to work, show up for his family, make jokes with friends, and continue meeting his responsibilities, all while having a difficult time internally.
Struggling Can Look Different Than You Expect
Mental and emotional distress can show up differently from person to person. Some signs that something may need more attention include:
Becoming more withdrawn or disconnected from others
Increased irritability, frustration, or anger
Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Difficulty concentrating or staying motivated
Changes in sleep or energy
Feeling constantly stressed or overwhelmed
Keeping excessively busy to avoid slowing down
Difficulty talking about emotions or asking for support
Experiencing one of these things doesn’t automatically mean someone has a mental health condition. However, changes that persist or begin interfering with everyday life can be worth paying attention to.
Why Can Asking for Help Feel Difficult?
Messages about masculinity can sometimes teach boys and men that they should be independent, “tough it out,” solve problems themselves, or avoid showing vulnerability.
Over time, this can make it harder to recognize emotional needs, let alone communicate them.
Seeking support, however, doesn’t have to begin with having the perfect words. Sometimes it starts as simply as saying, “I haven’t been feeling like myself lately.”
Making Mental Health More Practical
Supporting your mental health doesn’t always require a dramatic change. Small, consistent actions can create opportunities to check in with yourself.
Try asking yourself:
What has felt heavier than usual lately?
Notice whether certain responsibilities, relationships, or expectations have been taking more out of you.
Who can I actually talk to?
Identify at least one person you feel comfortable being genuine with, whether that's a friend, family member, mentor, or therapist.
Am I actually resting?
Being away from work isn't always the same as mentally switching off. Make intentional room for activities that allow you to recharge.
Have I been avoiding something?
If an emotion or concern keeps resurfacing, consider what might happen if you gave yourself space to explore it rather than immediately pushing it aside.
Therapy Can Be a Place to Start
You don’t need to wait until things become overwhelming to talk to a therapist. Psychotherapy can provide a confidential space to better understand your emotions, recognize patterns, develop coping strategies, navigate relationships, and work through challenges without judgment.
This Movember, consider checking in, not only with the men in your life, but with yourself.
At One Peace Therapy, our male Intern Psychotherapists, Gideon Oti-Gyamfi, support individuals through stress, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, emotional challenges, and more.
Ready to start the conversation? Book a FREE 20-minute Meet & Greet today to explore the support that may be right for you.
