A York-based academic is calling for people to share their views and experiences around men’s mental health

Underneath the dappled sunlight of a York park, a man sits on a bench, visibly wrestling with the weight of his thoughts. To an onlooker, he seems calm, perhaps even content, but delve deeper into his silence, and it reveals a harrowing truth—he is one of many men battling internal turmoil. This scene encapsulates what Professor Paul Galdas, a leading figure in men’s health at the University of York, describes as a silent epidemic affecting countless men across England.

The Hidden Crisis

Recently appointed co-chair of a national academic network by the Department of Health and Social Care, Professor Galdas is spearheading the development of England’s first Men’s Health Strategy. This initiative aims to address long-standing health disparities that have long plagued male populations. The statistics are sobering: suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50, with approximately 4,500 lives lost annually. Moreover, men are significantly more likely to die from preventable conditions like heart disease and liver disease.

A Call for Community Input

In his earnest plea, Professor Galdas has emphasized the need for public participation in shaping this vital strategy. “We’re facing a silent epidemic,” he urges. “Too many men are struggling with their health, both physically and mentally, but are not getting the support they need early enough. This new strategy is a chance to change that, and we need the public’s help to get it right.”

The initiative includes a public call for evidence, open until July 17, 2025, inviting individuals, professionals, and organizations to contribute their experiences and perspectives. “Whether you’re a GP, a youth worker, a father, a coach, or simply someone with a view on what needs to change, we want to hear from you,” Galdas emphasizes. Such grassroots input will be pivotal in determining the priorities of the new strategy.

Understanding the Gender Gap in Health Services

Despite the alarming statistics, studies indicate that men are disproportionately underrepresented in early intervention health services. According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Men’s Health, only 29% of men reached out for help when experiencing mental health issues, compared to 48% of women.

• Men often perceive seeking help as a sign of weakness.
• Many men are conditioned from a young age to ‘tough it out’ rather than express their feelings.
• Limited availability of gender-sensitive mental health resources further exacerbates this issue.

Dr. Angela Martin, a clinical psychologist specializing in men’s health, states, “The societal pressures men face to be stoic and resilient can create a toxic environment where they feel they cannot ask for assistance. This must change.” Her insights resonate with the urgency of addressing these barriers to mental health support.

The Long Shadow of Mental Health Stigma

Men’s mental health is not merely a personal struggle but a societal concern reflecting deep-rooted stigma. In a survey conducted by the Mental Health Foundation, 54% of men reported feeling uncomfortable discussing their mental health, highlighting the significant hurdles that need to be overcome. “The shame surrounding mental health issues often leads men to ignore their plight until it becomes unmanageable,” observes Dr. Luca Thompson, a sociologist at the University of Leeds with a focus on gender dynamics in mental health.

Thompson continues, “Shifting the narrative around men’s mental health is critical for this strategy to succeed. It is not just about policies; we need a cultural transformation.” This shift, however, requires a collective effort, fostering dialogue that promotes understanding and acceptance.

Implications for Public Health and Policy

The Men’s Health Strategy offers a comprehensive framework designed to tackle these issues head-on. Professor Galdas disclosed that the framework will propose enhanced training for healthcare providers to ensure they are sensitive to the unique challenges men face.

He adds, “We must recognize that men are not a monolith. Health strategies need to account for intersectionality—addressing how factors like age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status affect men’s health outcomes.” This nuanced understanding could be transformative, fostering tailored approaches that resonate with diverse male demographics.

Voices from the Community

The impact of this initiative extends beyond data and policies; it thrives on personal narratives and community engagement. Local community groups have begun to rally around the call for submissions, organizing discussions aimed at unraveling the complexities of men’s health. Paul Smith, a member of one such group, asserts, “It’s revealing to see how many men share similar feelings of isolation. By sharing our stories, we can create a sense of belonging.” His sentiment echoes a vital truth—that the pathway to recovery is often paved with shared experiences.

As the July 2025 deadline approaches for public submissions, the urgency for men to voice their experiences has never been greater. “We cannot underestimate the power of shared narratives,” Professor Galdas insists. “These stories are foundational. They will inform actions and strategies that address the real concerns men face every day.” Each submission serves as a pivotal moment in the collective fight against long-standing health inequities.

With the winds of change now at their backs, men across England are being called to step forward and share their experiences. The Men’s Health Strategy stands as a beacon of hope for a future where mental health is openly discussed, and support mechanisms are readily available. Perhaps in this collective effort lies the solution to a problem that has long been shrouded in silence. For many men, the journey toward healing begins with the simple act of sharing, breaking down barriers that have too often kept them in the dark.

Source: uk.news.yahoo.com