Movember is a great reminder to reflect on men’s mental health in the workplace. Men’s mental health remains a critical yet often overlooked aspect of workplace well-being. While mental health challenges affect employees of all genders, men tend to face unique barriers when it comes to seeking help. Societal expectations around masculinity—such as the pressure to be strong, self-reliant, “man-up” and avoid vulnerability—can discourage men from addressing their mental health needs. As organisations strive to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces, it’s essential to focus on practical strategies that can help men prioritize their mental well-being. Here are five key tips to support men’s mental health at work.
1. Normalise Mental Health Conversations
One of the biggest barriers to men seeking help for mental health issues is stigma. Men often feel that showing vulnerability is a sign of weakness, which can prevent them from reaching out when they need support. Senior and HR leaders can play a pivotal role in breaking down this stigma by normalising mental health conversations throughout the organisation.
Tip: Encourage leadership to openly talk about mental health and well-being. When senior leaders speak openly about mental health, it sets a positive example for all employees, making it clear that mental health discussions are welcome and important. Additionally, use inclusive language that speaks to resilience and well-being, rather than focusing solely on “self-care,” which might feel more personal or feminine to some men.
2. Offer Confidential Support Resources
Many men may prefer to seek help privately, so it’s important to ensure that mental health support is easily accessible and confidential. HR teams should promote resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and provide clear information about how employees can access them without fear of judgment.
Tip: Make confidential mental health services easily available, such as online counselling or phone support lines. Employees should feel comfortable using these services without worrying about the impact on their reputation or career. A clear, confidential support system ensures that men have an avenue for help when they need it.
3. Provide Flexible Work Options
Work-related stress is a leading contributor to mental health struggles, and many men may feel the pressure to overperform in their careers. Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or additional paid time off, can help employees manage stress and maintain a healthier work-life balance.
Tip: Ensure that managers are encouraged to support flexible working arrangements and understand the importance of balance for their team’s mental health. Flexibility allows employees to better manage personal commitments, recharge, and take care of their mental health, reducing burnout and stress.
4. Train Managers to Recognise Warning Signs
Men often express mental health challenges differently than women. They may not openly share feelings of sadness or anxiety but might instead exhibit signs such as irritability, anger, or withdrawal. Managers are in a unique position to identify early signs of distress, find opportunities to open up conversations and offer support before problems escalate.
Tip: Provide training for managers to help them spot early signs of mental health struggles in their teams. This training should focus on how to approach sensitive conversations with empathy, how to offer support, and how to direct employees to appropriate resources if needed. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing more serious issues.
5. Foster a Supportive, Open Culture
Creating a workplace culture that supports mental health is essential to reducing stigma and encouraging employees to seek help. Men are more likely to seek support in a workplace where they feel comfortable being open about their challenges.
Tip: Build a culture of openness where mental health is treated as a priority for everyone. This can include regular mental health awareness initiatives, peer support programs, and mental health workshops. Encouraging employees to check in with each other and fostering a sense of community can make a big difference in reducing feelings of isolation.
Last thought…
Supporting men’s mental health in the workplace is not only about offering resources but also about creating a culture where mental well-being is valued, stigma is reduced, and employees feel empowered to seek help. By normalising mental health conversations, providing confidential support, understanding the signs of possible mental health issues, offering flexibility, training managers, and fostering a supportive culture, Senior and HR leaders can ensure that men feel comfortable prioritising their mental health. These steps will not only improve individual well-being but also contribute to a more resilient and engaged workforce.
At ViewHR, we believe that prioritising mental health for all employees—regardless of gender—is essential for a thriving and successful workplace.
