Men's Mental Health Month

June marks Men's Mental Health Month. It's an opportune time to reflect on the importance of mental well-being. As I watch my sons take up space in adulthood, I understand how navigating this complex world can be daunting, particularly for young men who often feel societal pressures to conform to traditional notions of masculinity. Phrases such as “man up” leave no room for men and boys to effectively process their emotions.

Throughout their upbringing, I made it a priority to equip my sons with tools and resources to help them understand and manage their emotions effectively. From open conversations about mental health to providing books and participation in programs focused on emotional intelligence, I've encouraged them to express their feelings rather than suppress them. At the same time, societal injustices can weigh heavily on young men, especially those who encounter discrimination or bias based on how they show up in this world. For that, extra effort is critically necessary to foster resilience and empathy in them, ensuring they understand that they are worthy, deserving, and loved.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, men are less likely than women to report mental health challenges, often due to societal expectations that discourage emotional vulnerability. It’s alarming that men are more likely to die by suicide than women, with men accounting for nearly 80% of all suicide deaths in the United States. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for effective mental health support specifically tailored to men and to normalize mental health discussions in order to eliminate the stigma surrounding men's mental health.

As we celebrate Men's Mental Health Month, let's commit to empowering young men to find peace and restoration by prioritizing their mental health. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and asking for help is a sign of strength. I pray that we work together to build a brighter future for everyone. We can help young men flourish in their mental health journeys and be the advocates for change within their communities. The younger generation has the power to reshape societal norms, and it begins with acknowledging that prioritizing mental health is a strength, not a weakness.

Join us for Mental WELLth Wednesday TONIGHT at 6pm EST with special guest, Eric Dias. Eric is the author of “I Got Sober for This” and a tremendous mental health advocate with lived experience. During this transformative digital program we will break down stigma surrounding severe mental illness and celebrate June as Men’s Mental Health Month.