How men can better support each other’s 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 “In Good Company,” a website and podcast series that aims to answer that very question, offering practical advice for men looking to make new connections, strengthen existing relationships, and support one another.

The podcast series will interview men’s health experts and psychologists to explore the nuances and benefits of authentic male connection, both resources drawn from the team’s recent photovoice project and new research focused 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: One in five men suffers from mental health issues every year, yet many are hesitant to seek professional help – many don’t feel comfortable discussing their concerns with a health professional for fear of being judged. Men are expected to be strong and independent, and asking for help can sometimes be seen as a sign of weakness.

As a result, many men avoid seeking help altogether or drop out of services that don’t suit them. This lack of support exacerbates mental health problems and increases the risk of depression, anxiety and suicide among 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.

Building 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, which asked 65 men across Canada, aged between 19 and 78, to take photographs depicting their experiences with social connections and mental health challenges.

The stories that emerged were raw and thought-provoking. From the local pub to mountain tops, men shared stories of connecting, bonding and supporting each other, as well as instances where they felt they had not received enough support from their peers. Overwhelmingly, the men wanted stronger connections and more support from their peers. Their experiences and insights are integrated into the website. It’s as real as it gets.

How important is peer support for men facing different challenges?

P.S.: Peer influence is a powerful force for change. This is already seen in groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Our PhotoVoice study and related research Health Promotion International This suggests that informal peer networks, or circles of friends, can be just as influential and supportive.

Unfortunately, the importance of informal peer support in promoting mental health is often overlooked. Men are encouraged to talk openly, but there’s limited guidance on how to do so effectively. That’s the gap we aim to fill with In Good Company.