As International Men’s Day approaches on November 19, there’s an urgent need to shine a spotlight on a topic often overlooked: men’s mental health in the workplace. Globally, mental health issues like depression and anxiety contribute to the loss of 12 billion working days each year, costing the global economy a staggering $1 trillion annually. Yet, men—facing societal expectations of stoicism—are significantly less likely to seek help.

Mental health challenges among men often manifest as alcohol abuse, depression, or specific phobias, contributing to alarmingly high suicide rates. In fact, men are more than twice as likely as women to die by suicide. This isn’t just a workplace problem; it’s a crisis that calls for urgent action.

Dr. Vikram Vora, Medical Director and Chief Health Officer (Indian Subcontinent) at International SOS, explains why men struggle to seek help. Societal pressures to appear strong and unaffected often force men to bottle up their emotions, leading to silent suffering. According to Dr. Vora, the workplace can play a transformative role in breaking this cycle. By fostering open conversations about mental health, providing resources, and leading by example, organizations can create environments where men feel supported in prioritizing their mental well-being.

One of the key solutions lies in creating a culture that recognizes mental health as a priority. Employers can encourage work-life balance and organize stress management initiatives to address mental health proactively. Beyond that, fostering open conversations is critical. Men often hesitate to discuss their emotions, fearing judgment or ridicule. Safe spaces where employees feel comfortable sharing their experiences can make a significant difference, normalizing discussions about mental health and reducing stigma.

Leadership plays a pivotal role in driving change. Dr. Vora emphasizes the importance of leaders being vocal about their own struggles, demonstrating that vulnerability is not a weakness but a shared human experience. When leaders are open about their challenges, it creates a ripple effect, encouraging employees to feel safe discussing their own mental health.

Organisations must also provide employees with confidential access to professional help. Whether through Employee Assistance Programs, partnerships with mental health organizations, or virtual consultations, ensuring that support is easily accessible is crucial. Confidentiality is key in building trust, allowing employees to seek help without fear of exposure or judgment.

Continuous improvement is equally important. Employers need to listen to their workforce, using feedback to assess and enhance mental health programs. Initiatives must evolve to meet the changing needs of employees, ensuring they remain effective and impactful.

Dr. Vora believes that addressing these challenges goes beyond improving productivity; it’s about creating a workplace culture that values its people as individuals. As International Men’s Day reminds us, the mental health struggles men face are not insurmountable—but they require acknowledgment, empathy, and action.

By fostering supportive workplaces, organizations can empower men to break free from the stigma surrounding mental health. In doing so, they not only build stronger, healthier teams but also contribute to a society where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. This International Men’s Day, let’s take the first step toward a more inclusive and compassionate world of work.