In recognition of Men’s Health Week, 9-15 June 2025
When it comes to mental health, men are still dying in silence. Behind the stiff upper lips, the throwaway humour, the “I’m fine” responses, far too many men are quietly struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and emotional disconnection.
Men’s Health Week is a time to change that. At The Recovery Lodge, we support men from all walks of life who are facing challenges they’ve carried alone for far too long. This blog explores the state of men’s mental health in the UK, the barriers to getting help, and the power of stepping forward into support and recovery.
The Reality of Mental Health in Men
- In the UK, three out of four suicides are male.
- Men are less likely to access psychological therapies than women, only 36% of referrals are male.
- Rates of alcohol misuse are significantly higher in men, often used to suppress difficult emotions.
- Gambling, drug use, and risk-taking behaviours are more prevalent among men as a way to cope with stress or trauma.
- Shame and stigma prevent countless men from even acknowledging they’re struggling, let alone asking for help.
This isn’t because men don’t feel pain. It’s because too many have been taught that showing it is weak.
Why Men Struggle to Speak Up
The reasons behind this silence are complex but rooted in a deeply conditioned set of beliefs:
“I should be able to handle this myself.”
Many men have been raised to value independence and self-reliance, which makes asking for help feel like failure.
“I don’t want to burden anyone.”
Men are often told to “man up” or push through, leading them to minimise their feelings and assume no one wants to hear them anyway.
“I don’t even know what I’m feeling.”
For some, the disconnect runs so deep they can’t even name their emotions, only the stress, the numbness, or the urge to escape.
“People will think I’m weak or broken.”
Fear of judgement, embarrassment, or being seen differently can stop men from speaking out, especially in professional or social settings.
The Impact of Suppressed Emotions
When emotions aren’t expressed, they don’t disappear, they go somewhere else. For many men, that “somewhere” is:
- Alcohol or drug use, to numb stress, anger, or sadness
- Gambling, to create a distraction or a sense of control
- Aggression or withdrawal, when emotions have nowhere to go
- Poor sleep, anxiety or burnout, disguised as “normal stress”
- Suicidal thoughts, kept hidden due to fear or shame
The longer these behaviours go unchecked, the more damage they can do to careers, families, physical health, and self-worth.
What Recovery Looks Like for Men
Healing starts when a man feels safe enough to say, “I need help.”
At The Recovery Lodge, we see this moment as a turning point, not a breakdown, but a breakthrough. Our programmes are designed to support men in regaining emotional strength, clarity, and purpose.
Here’s what that journey typically includes:
Professional Mental Health Support
We offer a safe, non-judgemental space for men to explore their mental health, whether it’s trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, or addiction-related issues.
Addiction Treatment (Alcohol, Drugs, Gambling)
When mental health and addiction overlap, as they so often do, we provide integrated care that addresses both issues simultaneously.
Peer Support from Other Men
Being in a group of men who “get it” can be incredibly validating. We foster honest conversations, emotional connection, and mutual support.
Rebuilding Confidence and Identity
Many men arrive feeling like they’ve lost themselves. Through therapy, routine, and positive habits, we help them reconnect with who they are, and who they want to be.
Aftercare and Community
Recovery doesn’t stop when treatment ends. We continue to offer check-ins, support plans, and referrals to mental health services to ensure lasting stability.
Signs a Man Might Be Struggling (Even If He Won’t Say It)
If you’re worried about a friend, partner, colleague or relative, look for signs like:
- Frequent drinking or drug use “to unwind”
- Mood swings, irritability, or snapping at small things
- Avoidance of social situations or relationships
- Declining performance at work or a lack of motivation
- Obsessive behaviours like gambling, gym addiction, or overworking
- Phrases like “I’m just tired,” “It’s nothing,” or “I can handle it”
- Insomnia, weight changes, or frequent illness
Sometimes, all it takes is one honest conversation to make a difference.
Final Thoughts
Men’s Health Week is more than a campaign, it’s a reminder that no man should have to carry his pain in silence. Whether it’s stress, trauma, addiction or something you can’t even name yet, there’s support. There’s recovery. There’s a version of you that feels grounded, clear, and alive.
At The Recovery Lodge, we’re here when you’re ready. For men who feel lost, for those ready to take back control, and for anyone who simply needs someone to talk to.