Historically men have higher completed suicide rates and suicide is correlated with mental illness (particularly depression) so why are there fewer men seeking help for treatment of depression?

From 2014 the rates of mental disorder have steadily risen in women, to one in five women compared to only one in eight in men. However, 2018 three-quarters of the suicides were men. Men between the ages of forty and forty-nine have had the highest suicide rates.

There are many other factors that are concerning about men’s health too. Men report lower life satisfaction than women. Men seek less treatment for depression than women and only 36% of referrals for psychological treatment are men. Nearly three-quarters of missing people are men. 87% of rough sleepers are men.

Men are nearly three times as likely as women to become dependent on alcohol and other substances. Men are more likely to be compulsorily detained for treatment than women. Men are one and a half times more likely to be victims of violent crime than women. Men make up the vast majority of the prison population, where there are high rates of mental health problems and increased rates of self-harm.

I was talking to a project manager for a large construction firm, men in construction are in the higher risk professions for completed suicide, and he has completed the mental health training. He does ask his colleagues about the health and well-being but has not had anyone disclose any difficulties.

Locally there is a group for men to meet and discuss their thoughts in confidence. Always remember that your family and friends would rather see you and hear about your difficulties than attend your funeral.

As well as your GP and local NHS services, there are charities, such as MIND and the Mental Health Foundation, that everyone may approach if needed.