Did you get some laughs from the viral "goodnight" TikTok trend recently? In case you missed it, the trend started with wives and girlfriends encouraging men to call their friends before bed to say "goodnight" and posting the awkward, hilarious conversations that ensued on TikTok. Between reactions of confusion and laughter, there were some wholesome, heartwarming responses of surprise and appreciation that a friend would reach out, even just to say "goodnight."

The trend has led to a timely conversation about the importance of social connections and friendships among men. June is Men's Health Month, a national observance to raise awareness about health care for men and encourage healthy living decisions. The month often comes with a focus on physical health and the importance of staying physically active and keeping up with preventative exams, but it's also a time to spotlight the challenges men are facing with their mental health.

According to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1-in-5 men have experienced a mental illness, and they are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Men are also less likely to reach out for help with a mental health or substance use concern due a variety of factors, like stigma, societal norms, and gender stereotypes.

So, what's the connection to the "goodnight" TikTok trend? Just like some of the "goodnight" calls were met with gratitude and vulnerability, simply checking in with someone can be a powerful first step toward breaking stigma and starting a conversation about mental health. Sure, calling your buddy to tell him "goodnight" or check on his mental health may feel funny or uncomfortable at first, but with practice and reps, you'll build that muscle and make opening up part of your routine—and by having those conversations, you can be the reason someone finally feels comfortable sharing about their mental health.

Movember Conversations can be a helpful resource for navigating those conversations. Their ALEC approach—Ask, Listen, Encourage Action, Check In—can help you build confidence in tackling difficult conversations with the men in your life who may be struggling.

You've got this, and we've got you. If you need mental health support or resources for yourself or a man in your life, help is available. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or call Johnson County Mental Health Center's crisis line at 913-268-0156.

• Movember Conversations | Movember
• Men's Health Month | National Alliance on Mental Illness
• Explore Men's Mental Health Topics | Man Therapy
• 5 Myths that Prevent Men from Fighting Depression | NAMI Blog

• June 26: Johnson County Suicide Prevention Coalition monthly meeting
• July 23: Adult Mental Health First Aid (virtual)

Johnson County Suicide Prevention Coalition's mission is to save and support lives through awareness, education, and outreach. The coalition meets monthly and anyone passionate about suicide prevention is invited to attend. The next meeting will feature Josh Boydston from the nonprofit Six Feet Over. Josh will provide information about financial and emotional support for survivors of suicide loss.

Adult Mental Health First Aid is an interactive course that gives people the skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Participants are introduced to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems, gain and understanding of their impact and explore common interventions and treatments.