“Toughen up.” “Don’t get emotional.” “Don’t show any weakness.” Boys and men hear these phrases in the schoolyard, on the sports field, and then in the workplace.

Discussing mental health issues is hard for everyone, but these "act like a man" admonitions make the stigma even worse. This could explain why men die of suicide at three to four times the rate of women around the world.

It takes courage to demonstrate vulnerability. But in that vulnerability we can find strength and the opportunity for growth, connection, and inspiration. Role models can show that it's okay to not be okay.

And that it’s okay to talk about it.

Men often worry they’ll lose respect if they share their struggles openly. However, research has shown that men who hold harmful attitudes about masculinity are more likely to exhibit bullying behavior and depression. Avoiding negative outcomes is reason enough to open up, but there’s much to be gained as well.

Many men are experiencing increased stress as a result of the pandemic. Yet, two-thirds acknowledge that they have rarely spoken about their stress to others. Given men’s hesitancy, leaders and organizations need to be intentional about providing meaningful employee support.

Questions or comments on this topic? Email [email protected]. We'll feature reader commentary in next month's newsletter.

Sharing struggles can be difficult, especially if you’re worried about losing respect. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! Dip your toe in with a trusted individual or group. Vulnerability is a skill that improves with practice.

Teams can build a sharing practice together at the beginning of meetings or to start the day on chat. Establishing an environment of openness enables individuals to decompress and teams to help one another as needed.

Moustache-centric Movember is right around the corner, and men’s mental health is a central theme. Share photos of employees’ participation efforts, host a panel, or invite a guest speaker to address the challenges men face.

View last month's newsletter, "How Men Can Counter a Climate of Silence."

Gender equity is often framed as a women's issue, but it benefits everyone, men included.

Help us spread the word. Email one way gender equity has benefitted you to [email protected]. We’ll feature select responses in MARC Momentum.

The MARC Summit is a one-time, virtual Catalyst conference with thought-provoking programming that inspires participants to engage in effective gender partnerships and encourages men to model a healthy culture of masculinity in the workplace. Participants will engage in honest conversations, connect with the content, and create meaningful relationships with other attendees.

Questions or comments? Email Jared Cline, Director, MARC Engagement, at [email protected].

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