Introduction: More than Statistics
Despite increasing awareness, men’s mental health remains one of the most under-addressed global crises. Far too many men suffer in silence, and the consequences are heartbreakingly visible.
Mental Health by the Numbers
- Depression and Anxiety
Globally, depression affects roughly 1 in 5 men, while 1 in 3 men (and women) experience major depression during their lives. Vox+1
- Suicide: A Global Male Crisis
Men account for about 70% of all suicides worldwide, and suicide ranks among the top causes of death for men under 50 across Canada, the U.S., and the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand HeadsUpGuys
In the U.K. alone, suicide remains the leading cause of death among men under 50.
In 2016, the global male suicide rate stood at 14 per 100,000, nearly double that of women at 8 per 100,000.
The Treatment Gap: Men Face HUGE Barriers
- Even though ≈1 in 2 people will develop a mental disorder in their lifetime, 35–50% in high-income countries and up to 85% in low- and middle-income countries receive no treatment at all.
- In the U.S., only 40% of men with a diagnosed mental illness received treatment in the past year—compared to 52% of women. AAMC
Disturbingly, over 60% of men who die by suicide had seen mental health services in the year before their death, often without the support they needed.AAMC+1
Why So Many Men Don’t Reach Out
- Cultural Expectations
Deep-rooted norms—like stoicism, self-reliance, and emotional suppression—remain pervasive barriers. Men are often seen as weak if they express vulnerability. HeadsUpGuys+4Iris+4springhealth.com+4
- Avoidance & Isolation
On average, 40% of men admit they wouldn’t talk to anyone—family, friends, or professionals—about their mental health. For many, thinking of self-harm is what prompts them to finally seek help.
- Lack of Connection in Therapy
Even when men engage in therapy, many disconnect quickly. A survey of Australian men found that about half dropped out without telling their therapist, not because of stigma but because they didn’t feel a connection.
Why This Matters—and What We Can Do
This isn’t just stats—it’s a quiet emergency. The ripple effects touch families, communities, and workplaces.
What helps?
- Movement-based peer support (e.g., group cycling or local men’s support groups)
- Tailoring therapeutic approaches to validate masculine strengths and vulnerabilities
- Increasing male representation in therapy—for some, seeing a male therapist fosters trust and openness The Guardian
Final Thought: We Can’t Afford to Wait
Men globally are struggling—and many aren’t getting the help they deserve. This crisis demands compassionate, accessible, and culturally aware support. At Holistic Therapy Auckland, I’m committed to being part of that change—offering therapy that resonates, supports, and heals men for the long haul.