How men can better support each other’s mental health

Men are often urged to talk to friends about their mental health, but what does that mean?

This week, researchers from the Men’s Health Research Program introduced at UBC In good company, a website and podcast series that aims to answer exactly that question. The website offers practical advice for men who want to make new connections, strengthen existing relationships and provide mutual support.

The podcast series interviews men’s health experts and psychologists to explore the nuances and benefits of authentic male connection. Both sources come from the team’s recent photovoice project and from a new study focusing on peer support for mental health challenges.

In this Q&A: Dr. Paul Sharp (PS), senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales and researcher in the men’s health programme, and Dr. John Oliffe (JO), principal investigator of the program and professor of nursing at UBC, discuss the inspiration behind these initiatives and provide tips for supporting mental health.

Why is protecting men’s mental health important?

JO: One in five men struggle with mental health issues each year, yet many hesitate to seek professional help. They often feel uncomfortable discussing their concerns with their healthcare providers for fear of being judged. Societal expectations of masculine strength and self-reliance can make seeking help seem like a sign of weakness.

As a result, many men avoid seeking support altogether or quit services that don’t suit them. This lack of support can worsen mental health problems, leading to a higher risk of depression, anxiety and suicide among men, who make up 75 percent of all suicide deaths worldwide. Mental health care must respond more effectively to the needs of men.

How can In Good Company help men overcome these challenges?

PS: The website offers practical tips on how to start conversations with friends about everything from fatherhood to divorce to substance use. It suggests ways to reconnect with old friends and navigate tough times, and reminds men that reaching out is a positive step and that their friends do want to help.

The podcast delves deeper into these issues, with new episodes every two weeks drawn from my research into male social connections. Each episode features guest speakers who share their expertise and life lessons.

JO: These resources are inspired by our recent one photo voice projectwhere we asked 65 men aged 19 to 78 from across Canada to take photos of their experiences with social connections and mental health issues.

The stories that emerged were raw and revealing: from local pubs to mountaintops, men shared stories of connection, bonding and helping each other, as well as instances where peer support fell short. The men especially wanted stronger bonds and more support from their peers. Their experiences and insights are integrated into the website. It’s as real as it gets.

How important is peer support for men facing different challenges?

PS: Influence from colleagues can make a powerful contribution to bringing about change. You already see this in groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Our photovoice research and a related study in Health Promotion International suggest that informal peer networks – one’s circle of friends – can be just as influential and supportive.

Unfortunately, the importance of informal peer support in promoting mental health is often overlooked. Although men are encouraged to open up, there are limited guidelines on how to do so effectively. That is the gap we want to fill with In Good Company.