Men’s Mental Health Research
One in seven men will experience depression, and one in five will face anxiety at some point in their lives (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022). Tragically, suicide remains the leading cause of death for males aged 15 to 44 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2024).
Understanding Men’s Mental Health
Men’s mental health refers to the psychological wellbeing of men and is influenced by various factors, including:
- societal expectations: societal pressure can create significant barriers to accessing support, leading to higher rates of untreated anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among men.
- stigmas around expressing emotions: overcoming these stigmas is crucial to ensuring that men feel comfortable seeking help and accessing the care they need.
Men’s mental health statistics in Australia
- Every day in Australia, 7 men take their lives (ABS, 2022)
- Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women (ABS, 2022)
- In Australia, 75% of all suicides are by men (ABS, 2022)
Men’s mental health statistics in Australia are alarming, with mental health issues disproportionately affecting men. Research shows that suicide is the leading cause of death for men under the age of 45, with suicide rates among men being three times higher than that of women (ABS, 2022).
These figures highlight the urgent need for greater awareness and action around mental health for men.
If you or someone you know needs immediate crisis support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au.
We know that men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues (AIHW, 2024). This reluctance to reach out for support often exacerbates the impact of mental health struggles, leading to more severe outcomes.
In addition to suicide, Australian men also face significant mental health challenges, with anxiety disorders, depression, and stress-related conditions being particularly prevalent. These mental health conditions affect men of all ages and backgrounds, underscoring the need for mental health resources for men.
The role of mental health research
Men’s mental health is a critical issue that requires ongoing attention and support. The Hospital Research Foundation Group plays a pivotal role:
- providing essential services,
- raising awareness, and
- funding men’s mental health research aimed at improving mental well-being.
The Hospital Research Foundation Group is dedicated to supporting mental health and wellbeing through medical research, clinical trials and impactful initiatives, such as:
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New mental health medications
Committing $570,000 to improve patient outcomes from mental health medications. Dr Paul Joyce from the University of South Australia is working on engineering new mental health medications that improve diversity in a patient’s gut microbiome, in order to better regulate the gut-brain pathways linked with psychiatric disorders and minimise side effects from existing medications.
- New treatment for depression and insomnia
Funding a $125,000 trial of a new model of care for men suffering from depression and insomnia. Approximately 90% of men with depression experience insomnia, increasing their risk of future depression and relapse and reducing treatment response. However, insomnia is often neglected in depression management. The project, led by Dr Nicole Lovato from Flinders University’s world-leading Sleep Health clinic, aims to trial a new model of care for men suffering from depression and insomnia.
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Mental health trained paramedics for Triple-0 calls
Funding a six-month trial, which has now become an ongoing service through the South Australian Ambulance Service, for a mental health trained paramedic to assist with Triple-0 calls to help identify what kind of care or intervention is necessary, and potentially help divert mental health patients away from emergency departments and to more appropriate care.
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Improving care for youth depression
Associate Professor Oliver Schubert from the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network is leading a study into improving care for 18 to 25 year olds presenting with youth depression.
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New workshops and therapies for traumatic experiences
Research-backed, peer-led workshops and therapies to help service personnel cope with traumatic experiences, improve relationships and transition to civilian life through The Hospital Research Foundation Group charity Military and Emergency Services Health Australia.
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Improving GP expertise in men’s mental health
A Men’s Health Fellowship aimed at improving GPs’ expertise in all areas of men’s health, including mental health, and encouraging men to seek help.
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Mental Health First Aid Training
Military and Emergency Services Health Australia offers early-intervention courses that increase mental health literacy and teach the practical skills needed to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health challenges or in a mental health crisis until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves.
For more information on how we are supporting mental health research in Australia, visit our Mental Health Research area.
Supporting men’s mental health charities for better outcomes
Men’s health research and awareness are critical to addressing the growing challenges men face in both mental and physical health.
- Your continuous support helps fund mental health research and support services to better understand and address men’s mental health challenges.
Whether through a donation, a fundraiser, or simply spreading the word, your involvement can save lives.
Together, we can ensure that more men receive the support they need to live healthier, happier lives.
Donate today to help make a lasting impact.
Partnerships and community support are vital
The success of these programs is made possible through key partnerships with other organisations that share a commitment to improving men’s mental health. The Hospital Research Foundation Group collaborates with local health services and mental health charities to extend its reach and ensure comprehensive support for men.
In addition to formal partnerships, community support plays a critical role in the success of these programs. Communities that actively engage in mental health awareness, education, and support can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in men.
Our proud partnership with grassroots health initiative Fat Farmers is boosting the physical and mental health of rural and regional communities with a particular focus on men’s mental health.
We are also proud to have awarded a $65,000 grant to Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation to support its innovative Sport in Mental Health Charter to promote education and awareness around mental health and wellbeing in the sporting community.
FAQs on Men's Mental Health Research
Men’s mental health is often overlooked due to societal expectations and stigmas surrounding masculinity. Evidence shows men are less likely to be proactive in seeking help and discussing their health issues. This lack of awareness and support can be a contributing factor to the higher rates of suicide, anxiety, and depression among men, making it crucial to continue removing the stigma and raising men’s mental health awareness.
Supporting a man who is struggling with mental health requires empathy, patience, and understanding. Encourage open communication, listen without judgment, and help him find professional support, such as therapy or counselling. Recognising the importance of mental health resources for men and offering to assist in finding help can make a significant difference in his journey toward healing.
If you or someone you know needs immediate crisis support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au.
Helping men with mental health starts with fostering a supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing their emotions. You can guide them toward available mental health resources for men, encourage them to seek professional help with organisations such as Beyond Blue or Lifeline, and offer emotional support. Participating in fundraising and initiatives that raise awareness about men’s mental health, like the ‘Fire Up for Men’s Health’ campaign, also plays a crucial role in reducing stigma and providing necessary services.
While physical health issues such as heart disease, prostate cancer, and diabetes remain significant concerns for men, mental health is increasingly recognised as one of the most critical health issues facing men today. In Australia, mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and stress, are having a profound impact on men’s wellbeing.
If you or someone you know needs immediate crisis support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au.
References
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022). Causes of Death, Australia, 2021: Intentional self-harm (suicide) –https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/causes-death/causes-death-australia/2022#intentional-self-harm-deaths-suicide-in-australia.
- ABS (2022) National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, 2020-21 – https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health/national-study-mental-health-and-wellbeing/2020-2022.
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW, 2024) – Prevalence and impact of mental illness – Mental health – AIHW
