Men account for three-quarters of suicide deaths in the Western world, with global estimates suggesting that up to half a million men take their own lives each year. Despite global efforts in psychoeducation and de-stigmatisation campaigns, men remain less likely to engage with mental health services than women, often attending fewer sessions, cancelling more frequently, and dropping out prematurely.
This session will introduce Movember’s Men in Mind (MiM) program, a world-first, research-backed initiative aimed at strengthening mental health professionals' ability to support men. It will explore the key concepts and strategies covered in MiM, including how to better understand the complexities of men’s health and masculinity in order to deliver care that engages, motivates, and connects with male clients.
The session will also explore how masculinity influences the assessment, formulation, and treatment of male clients. Participants will learn practical techniques for setting clear expectations, effectively screening for distress, and increasing engagement with active treatments. These strategies aim to align with, rather than conflict with, evolving masculine norms. Additionally, the session will highlight the importance of tailoring mental health education to men’s unique needs, improving their understanding of mental health symptoms, and addressing barriers to treatment.
To meaningfully address the growing mental health burden on men, it is essential that mental health professionals listen, understand, and connect with men’s unique lived experiences.