It's no secret that men tend to have a complicated relationship with mental health. Harmful stereotypes often stop men from getting the support they deserve, as they've been conditioned to think that emotions are a sign of weakness. The tides are certainly shifting, with discussions about mental health happening more openly. This has included vital conversations around the mental health of young boys and teenagers. Last year's Adolesence brought toxic rhetoric previously confined to marginal online spaces into wider public debate, while Louis Theroux's recent documentary Inside the Manosphere takes a hard look at some of the warped ideas surrounding manhood that flourish online.

In 2026, men still face stigma when it comes to working through their emotional issues. The irony is that it takes real strength to face your troubles, be that through therapy or opening up to a trusted person.
 

The state of play

Recent findings from Bupa have shown that almost a third of men in the UK don't know where to turn for help with their mental health issues, and over a third have hidden a mental health issue from their partner. It's clear that men need clear guidance about their options and confidential support to work through their concerns. The study also identified several common issues men tend to chat to each other about, including getting older, health concerns (their own or those of a friend/family member) and strategies for men's health. This highlights a difference in societal attitudes to physical and mental health.

It seems physical health is seen as more acceptable ground for conversation: it's easier to compare gym routines or discuss an injury than to admit to anxiety, stress or low mood. Yet emotional challenges are just as common and just as human. Anxiety, burnout and depression are not rare or unusual experiences, but part of the spectrum of life events and pressures that affect us all. When these struggles are left unspoken, they can intensify. When they are shared, they often become more manageable.
 

Why therapy?

Professional support offers a structured and confidential environment to explore concerns in depth. Therapy is not about dwelling endlessly on problems. It can be practical and forward-looking. Many approaches draw on strengths, focusing on what is already working and identifying realistic steps towards change. For some men, a solution-focused approach feels more accessible. It emphasises goals, resilience and practical tools rather than abstract discussion. For others, having space to reflect on long-held beliefs about masculinity and self-worth can be transformative. Both routes are valid, and at First Psychology Newcastle, our professionals are skilled in a range of therapeutic styles. Community initiatives can also make a meaningful difference. Groups such as Andy's Man Club provide spaces where men can talk openly in a supportive and informal setting. Hearing others articulate similar thoughts can reduce the sense of isolation that so often accompanies mental distress.

The message to men is this: seeking support is not an admission of weakness. It is an investment in wellbeing, relationships and long-term health, and as the conversation around men's mental health continues to evolve, clear information and compassionate spaces remain essential. No one benefits from struggling alone.

To learn more about men's mental health, check out our free guide.