MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH: BREAKING THE SILENCE
June is Men’s Health Month—a time to raise awareness about the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of men across the country. While conversations around mental health have become more common in recent years, the unique challenges men face are still often overlooked. At Polara Health, we believe it’s time to break the silence and normalize seeking help—because mental strength includes knowing when to reach out.
The Hidden Struggle
Men experience mental health conditions at significant rates. In fact, over 6 million men in the U.S. suffer from depression each year, yet far fewer seek treatment. Suicide rates are alarmingly high among men, especially middle-aged and older men, with men dying by suicide nearly four times more often than women, according to the CDC.
So why the gap between need and support?
Cultural expectations often teach men to be stoic, self-reliant, and emotionally reserved. Many fear that admitting they’re struggling will be seen as weakness. This stigma—combined with limited awareness of symptoms or resources—leaves countless men suffering in silence.
Mental Health Looks Different in Men
Mental health symptoms may not always appear as sadness or crying. Men are more likely to show signs such as:
Irritability or anger
Fatigue or sleep disturbances
Loss of interest in work or hobbies
Substance use or risky behavior
Physical issues like headaches or digestive problems
These signs often go unnoticed—or are mistaken for other issues—leading to missed opportunities for help and healing.
Creating Space for Conversations
One of the most powerful things we can do is normalize the conversation around men’s mental health. This begins with simple, everyday actions:
Ask open-ended questions like “How have you been coping lately?” or “Is there something you need?”
Listen without judgment. Let them know it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
Share stories of hope. Hearing from others who’ve sought support and found relief can be life-changing.
Local Help is Here
At Polara Health, we offer confidential, compassionate support for individuals of all ages and backgrounds—including services tailored for men. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or substance use, we’re here to walk beside you on the path to wellness.
Our team understands that seeking help isn’t easy. That’s why we strive to make it as simple and stigma-free as possible—with walk-in crisis services, therapy options, peer support groups, and resources for families.
A Message to the Men in Our Community
You are not alone. You do not have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Your feelings are valid, and asking for help is not weakness—it’s strength.
This June, let’s redefine what it means to be strong. Let’s build a culture where men feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to care for their mental health just like their physical health.
Because when men thrive, families thrive. Communities thrive.
Need to talk? Reach out to Polara Health’s Call Center Ambassadors at 928-445-5211 or walk through our doors 24/7 at the Crisis Stabilization Unit located at 8655 E. Eastridge Drive Prescott Valley. The 988 Crisis Line is available 24/7 with trained professionals ready to help with any type of crisis or concern.