American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

For Men’s Health Month this June, we’re taking a moment to reflect on how we can continue to support mental health and suicide prevention among men. Research shows that suicide rates are disproportionately high among men –– but at the same time, we know suicide can often be prevented, and that there are lifesaving mental health resources available for those who are struggling.

For our Real Stories blog, AFSP Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement Vic Armstrong, MSW, opened up about his own experience with mental health, including his childhood memories of being told to “man up” and suppress his emotions. Vic’s blog also offers important, concrete steps that men can take to care for their mental health, from exercise and practicing mindfulness, to connecting with friends and having open conversations about their mental health. Vic writes:

“The reality is that men do cry, men do experience emotional pain, and men do experience mental fatigue. In short, men need self-care, too. Self-care is simply the act of taking time to focus on yourself.” (Read Vic’s full story.)

Another new blog, from comedian Gary Gulman (HBO’s “The Great Depresh”), shares practical tips about how to stay resilient and proactively manage mental health on a daily basis. Gary recently shared 100 mental health insights on his Instagram, including:

“When I was 20 a man visiting my uncle Norman CASUALLY mentioned that he took antidepressants. He said it with the same vibe you'd tell people that you wore a brace after knee surgery. I WAS STUNNED. I was on Prozac and intensely guarded that secret, but that man's honesty that day made me feel better, less alone. You may never know the IMPACT you can have just by being honest about your condition.” (Read “Things I Did to Get Out of a Crippling Two-and-a-half-year Depression: Mental Health Resilience Tips from Comedian Gary Gulman.”)

Here are some more stories and resources we encourage you to explore –– whether you’re a man looking for mental health support, or know men who are:

From the Real Stories Blog:

“Seeking Help Is an Act of Courage”

“Julie’s Spirit Is With Me in My Advocacy”

“As a Suicide Attempt Survivor, I Know There Is Hope Out There”

From The Strong Talk Podcast:

“Building a Path to Suicide Prevention in the Construction Industry”

“Asian in America with Richard Lui”

“Funny Feelings (Part 1) with J.B. Smoove”

“Man to Man”

This June and beyond, help spread the message among the men in your life that it’s okay to not be okay, that they’re not alone, and that there is help available. Let’s look out for each other.