Annually in June, we recognize National Men’s Health Week. This year it will be observed during the days leading up to Father’s Day, June 9th – 15th. This week serves as an important reminder to focus on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of men and boys. It also raises awareness about preventable health problems and encourages early detection/treatment of diseases. While the majority of support leans toward physical health, at Western Youth Services (WYS), we believe that men’s mental health is just as vital to long term well-being. This is especially true for boys and young men who are still developing their sense of identity, purpose, and resilience.
Why Mental Health Awareness for Men Matters
Despite conversations around mental wellness becoming more common, stigmas still surround mental health awareness for men. Cultural expectations and gender norms sometimes discourage boys and men from showing emotions, being vulnerable or even seeking help. This causes many men to suffer in silence, leaving them unaware of or unable to access the resources that can help them thrive.
The following statistics speak for themselves:
- Nearly 1 in 10 men experience depression or anxiety, but less than half of them seek out treatment (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022).
- Men die by suicide nearly four times more often than women. Research shows that suicide is the second leading cause of death among males ages 10–34.
- Boys are less likely than girls to be identified and treated for emotional and behavioral concerns in early childhood and adolescence (American Psychological Association, 2020).
This data shows the urgent need for guidance and support that promote emotional wellness, open conversations, and age appropriate resources for boys and teens.
Empowering Boys and Young Men Through Mental Health Support
At WYS, we understand that early intervention and ongoing support make a huge difference. Through our trauma informed, strengths based approach, we provide tools that empower youth to reach their full potential.
Here’s how we support men’s mental health at every stage:
- School Based Mental Health Programs – We provide on campus support to boys and young men who may be navigating peer pressure, identity development, or academic stress. Our clinicians meet students where they are, offering compassionate, one on one care in a safe and familiar setting.
- Mental Health Screenings and Referrals – Early detection is key to treating emotional or behavioral health conditions. We offer screenings to identify young people who may benefit from additional services, removing barriers before challenges escalate.
- Family Engagement and Parent Education – Helping families understand the signs of emotional distress in boys and how to support them without judgment is a crucial part of what we do. Our parent support services are inclusive, culturally responsive, and available in multiple languages.
- Professional Development and Trainings – WYS equips educators and mental health professionals with the tools to recognize and respond to the unique needs of boys and young men. We offer trainings in trauma informed care, suicide prevention, and gender responsive practices.
Health Tips for Men and Boys
During National Men’s Health Week, we encourage families, caregivers, and educators to promote total well-being for the boys and men in their lives. Here are a few practical health tips for men to support both physical and emotional wellness:
- Check in regularly – Initiate open and honest conversations about stress, sadness, or anxiety regularly to dispel the stigma or awkwardness surrounding these topics. Listening without judgment can be incredibly helpful.
- Promote healthy routines – Youth absolutely thrive on some type of routine in their everyday lives. Encourage regular exercise, offer balanced nutrition, and promote an adequate amount of sleep to ensure a positive impact on emotional stability.
- Encourage connection – Suffering in silence will only worsen mental health struggles. Recommend increasing social interactions. This is a vital aspect of mental health. You can help young men find community through school, sports, creative outlets, or even mentorship.
- Know the signs – Be on alert for changes in behavior, mood, sleep, or school performance. These may be signs that indicate a young person is struggling. Early support in these situations is key.
Whether you’re a young man dealing with tough emotions, or a parent worried about your son, help is available. Healing begins with kindness, connection, and support.
This National Men’s Health Week, let’s choose to talk more about men’s mental health and lift up the boys and men in our lives. At Western Youth Services, we’re here to create safe, welcoming spaces where all young people can grow and thrive.
Sources:
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health
- https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mens-health.htm
- https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/mens-mental-health
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness
- https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
- https://www.apa.org/about/policy/child-adolescent-mental-behavioral-health
- https://www.westernyouthservices.org/
