If you’re a man — or care about one — it’s important to know that mental health challenges often go unnoticed or unspoken. Many men are taught to “tough it out” or keep their feelings to themselves, but checking in with your emotional health is just as vital as taking care of your body.

Here’s why paying attention to your mental health matters, what signs to watch for, and how to take that first step if you’re struggling.

Why Mental Health in Men Often Goes Unnoticed

Mental health challenges can affect anyone. But for men, they often show up in less obvious ways, and that can make them easier to miss or dismiss.

Cultural messages around masculinity sometimes push you to “tough it out” or “keep it to yourself.” You might feel like you’re supposed to handle everything on your own, or that asking for help means you’re weak. The truth? It takes real strength to acknowledge when something’s off and do something about it.

Common Warning Signs in Men

Depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns don’t always look the same in men as they do in women. In fact, men are more likely to show physical symptoms or changes in behavior than emotional ones.

Some signs to watch for:

• Irritability or anger – You may feel more easily frustrated or reactive than usual.
• Withdrawal – Pulling away from family, friends, or activities you normally enjoy.
• Fatigue or sleep changes – Trouble sleeping, sleeping too much, or always feeling tired.
• Loss of interest – Feeling numb, bored, or disconnected from life.
• Substance use – Turning to alcohol or drugs to cope or escape.
• Physical complaints – Headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain with no clear cause.
• Workaholism or risk-taking – Using distraction or adrenaline to avoid what’s really going on.

In more severe cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide can occur. If that happens, it’s crucial to seek help immediately — there’s no shame in it, and support is always available.

Sometimes, these changes are easy to overlook or dismiss as “just stress” or a rough patch. But if you notice these patterns in yourself or someone you care about, it’s important to take them seriously.

Why It’s Worth Opening Up

You don’t have to hit rock bottom to benefit from talking to someone. Addressing your mental health can improve your focus, energy, relationships, and even your physical health. Studies show that ignoring emotional distress can lead to physical health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders, as well as unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse or overeating. Men are also at higher risk for suicide, often because mental health issues go untreated or unrecognized.

When you give yourself permission to open up, you create space to feel better, and to show up more fully for the people and things that matter to you.

What You Can Do

If any of the symptoms above sound familiar, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out alone either. Here are some steps you can take:

• Talk to someone you trust – A friend, partner, or family member can help you feel less isolated.
• Schedule a check-in with your doctor – You can start with your primary care provider, who can refer you to mental health support if needed.
• Consider therapy – Talking to a therapist doesn’t mean something is “wrong with you.” It means you’re taking steps to take care of yourself.
• Try small daily habits – Movement, sleep, downtime, and healthy eating all play a role in emotional resilience.
• Use anonymous support tools – If you’re not ready to talk face-to-face, helplines, text support, or apps can offer a place to start.

You Deserve Support

Prioritizing your mental health is one of the best things you can do for yourself and those you care about. If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, stay with them and call 911 or get them to the nearest emergency room for an assessment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, visit Texas Health Behavioral Health or call the helpline at 682-549-7916, which is available 24/7.