Building stronger male relationships for better mental health

Men are often encouraged to talk to their friends about their mental health, but what does that involve?

This week, researchers from UBC’s Men’s Health Research Program launched a website and podcast series, In Good Company, that aims to answer that very question. The website offers practical advice for men who want to make new connections, strengthen existing relationships, and provide mutual support. The podcast series interviews men’s health experts and psychologists to explore the nuances and benefits of authentic male connection. Both resources draw from the team’s recent photovoice project and new research focusing on peer support for mental health issues.

In this Q&A, Dr Paul Sharpe (PS), senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales and researcher in the Men’s Health Program, and Dr John Oliff (JO), principal investigator of the program and professor of nursing at UBC, discuss the inspiration behind these efforts and offer tips for supporting mental health.

Why is it important to protect men’s mental health?

Joe: Every year, one in five men suffers from a mental health problem, yet many are hesitant to seek professional help. Many are reluctant to discuss their concerns with a healthcare provider for fear of being judged. Society’s expectation that men should be strong and independent can make asking for help seem like a sign of weakness. As a result, many men avoid seeking support altogether or opt out of services that do not resonate with them. This lack of support exacerbates mental health problems and leads to increased risk of depression, anxiety and suicide in men, who account for 75% of suicides worldwide. Mental health services must respond more effectively to men’s needs.

How does In Good Company help men face these challenges?

P.S.: The website offers practical tips for starting conversations with friends about issues ranging from fatherhood to divorce to drug use. It suggests ways to reconnect with old friends and get through difficult times, and reminds men that reaching out is a positive step and that friends want to help.

Drawing on my research into men’s social connections, this podcast will dig deeper into these issues with a new episode every two weeks, and in each episode, a guest speaker will share their expertise and life lessons.

Joe: These resources were inspired by a recent Photovoice project, in which 65 men ages 19-78 across Canada were asked to take photos depicting their experiences with social connection and mental health challenges. The stories that emerged were raw and thought-provoking. From the local pub to mountaintops, the men shared stories of connecting, bonding, and supporting one another, as well as instances where they found peer support lacking. Overwhelmingly, the men wanted stronger connections and more support from their peers. Their experiences and insights have been integrated into a website. It’s as real as it gets.

How important is peer support for men facing different challenges?

P.S.: Peer influence is powerful in inspiring change. We’ve already seen this in groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Our photovoice and related research shows that informal peer networks — circles of friends — can be just as influential and supportive. Unfortunately, the importance of informal peer support in promoting mental health has been overlooked. Men are encouraged to open up, but there’s limited guidance on how to do so effectively. That’s the gap we aim to fill with In Good Company.