While we continue to make progress in destigmatizing mental health, one problem remains unchanged: men, particularly older men, are still falling through the cracks. According to the CDC, the suicide rate among males is approximately four times higher than the rate among women. Nearly 80% of suicides in the U.S. are male. Older men are the most vulnerable—men ages 85 and older have the highest rate of suicide of any age group at 55.7 suicides per 100,000 people. Yet they are also the least likely to seek mental health care, in part because of societal stigma and expectations for men to show external “strength.” But the negative impact of men’s mental health struggles trickles down through families, workplaces and beyond.
“As health care professionals, benefit leaders and advocates, we must ensure that care is not only available but accessible in ways that respect men’s needs and concerns. That means creating safe, stigma-free ways to reach out for help.”
John Langlow, MD, MBA – Medical Director
Studies show that men are significantly less likely than women to talk to someone about their mental health. Many say they fear being judged or don’t believe their feelings are serious enough to warrant care. Their friendships are also more likely to be based on shared activities than emotional intimacy. When men are unable or unwilling to acknowledge their emotional struggles, the effects ripple outward. In families, it can show up as emotional unavailability, conflict or inherited trauma patterns passed on to children. In the workplace, male supervisors who are struggling may model unhealthy coping behaviors or contribute to toxic environments where stress, anger and burnout go unspoken.
Supporting men’s mental health, especially among aging populations can avoid crisis, but more importantly it improves their quality of life and that of their families. As health care professionals, benefit leaders and advocates, we must ensure that care is not only available but accessible in ways that respect men’s needs and concerns. That means creating safe, stigma-free ways to reach out for help. Anonymity matters, especially for men who fear their jobs, relationships or reputations might be impacted by asking for support.
Health plans can provide needed tools where men can self-navigate to care through common barriers and entry points to care on their own. When men can explore options privately, learn what to expect, and move at their own pace, they’re more likely to take the first step. These tools can also be leveraged to change the narrative for men, helping them embrace the idea that mental health struggles do not mean weakness—and begin to pass these messages to the next generation.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are another underutilized resource, which offer tailed and confidential support for emotional challenges, substance use, workplace stress and more. Employees don’t need to go through their manager or HR to find help. They can access licensed counselors anonymously, online or by phone, 24/7. That level of discretion can make all the difference.
It’s time to give men the support they deserve, and the tools they need, to take charge of their mental well-being.
John Langlow, MD, MBA is a medical director at Lucet.
