Beyond “Man Up”: Why Traditional Masculinity is a Barrier to Mental Wellness
Phrases like “man up” may seem innocuous or merely motivational, but they are rooted in traditions that discourage emotional expression, vulnerability, and help-seeking. In the UK, these norms contribute significantly to mental health challenges for men. To advance mental wellness, we need to unpack how traditional masculinity creates barriers, and how individuals, communities, and organisations can shift toward more inclusive, healthier masculinities.
The Problem: Traditional Masculinity & Its Cost
Statistical Evidence
In England, men are ~3 times more likely to die by suicide than women.
Only ~36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies are for men even though rates of depression, anxiety, and other common mental health disorders are significant among men.
In a recent survey, 40% of UK men said they would need to reach a crisis point (thoughts of self-harm or suicide) before seeking professional help. About 29% said they feel too embarrassed to reach out.
How Norms Get Internalised
Norms like being emotionally stoic, suppressing tears, always being “in control,” and equating vulnerability with weakness are deeply internalised from youth.
Peer pressure and media portrayals reinforce these ideals; boys and men who deviate from expectations often fear social consequences mockery, judgement, or feeling less masculine.
Barriers to Help-Seeking & Wellness
1. Emotional Suppression & Shame
Many men report feelings of shame or self-judgment for experiencing mental health issues. This stops early help-seeking.
2. Fear of Professional or Social Repercussions
Concerns about career impact: 52% of men worry about taking time off for mental health and 46% are embarrassed to tell their employer.
Social stigma: 40% of men said they would refuse to talk to anyone - even friends or family - about their mental health unless they hit crisis.
3. Lack of Resources Tailored to Men
Many mental health services are not designed with men’s communication styles or help-seeking patterns in mind. Workshops or therapies may not feel relevant.
Men are less likely to refer themselves to psychological services and more likely to engage with service once crisis point is reached.
Overcoming the Barriers: Shifting Masculinity
1. Redefining Strength
Promote the idea that strength includes vulnerability, honesty, and emotional expression.
Public campaigns, both internal (in companies) and external, should amplify male voices that challenge toxic norms.
2. Representation and Role Models
Encourage male leaders, influencers, managers to share stories of vulnerability, therapy, mental health challenges.
Use internal channels: newsletters, town halls, video messages.
3. Tailored Mental Health Services
Provide mental health services with male-friendly formats: peer groups, men’s circles, outdoor or physical activity integrated therapy.
Ensure resources are accessible, confidential, and promoted in ways that resonate with male audiences.
4. Education from an Early Age
Support school and community programmes that teach emotional literacy and challenge gender stereotypes from adolescence.
Workshops, PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education) content on masculinity and mental health.
How Organisations Can Help
Conduct training for managers to recognize signs of distress that may manifest differently in men (irritability, withdrawal, risk behaviour).
Start internal messaging and policies that normalise help-seeking: mental health days, counselling, etc., without stigma or judgement.
Establish peer support networks specifically for men, giving safe space to share.
Embed feedback loops to learn from employees about what is and isn’t working; adapt services accordingly.
Conclusion
Traditional masculinity norms remain deeply embedded in UK culture, contributing significantly to men delaying help, experiencing worse outcomes, and under-utilising existing mental health services. But change is possible with intentional effort from individuals, employers, and the wider society.