The State of Men’s Health: What Women Can Do to Help

They may look strong, confident, and unshakable — but behind closed doors, many men are quietly struggling with their physical and mental health.

In fact, men are statistically less likely to visit the doctor, talk about how they feel, or seek help early — even when something’s wrong. And too often, by the time they do, it’s serious.

As women — partners, mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends — we play a powerful role in changing that story. Here’s what every woman should know about men’s health today… and how to help the men in your life stay well, body and mind.

1. Men still don’t talk — and that silence is hurting them.

Despite progress, many men were raised to believe that talking about emotions equals weakness. So they bottle it up — stress, sadness, fear — until it becomes too heavy.

Mental health experts say this is one of the biggest barriers to men getting support. One small shift we can make? Create safe, pressure-free spaces. Instead of asking “What’s wrong?”, try “How are you feeling this week?” or even “Rough day?” — and then just listen.

2. Encourage regular check-ups (without nagging).

Men are often reluctant to go to the doctor — especially if they “feel fine.” But conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and prostate cancer can sneak up quietly.

Make it a family norm to do annual check-ups — not a lecture. Book your own appointment and suggest going together: “I’m getting my health check next week — why don’t you book yours too?”

Framing it as teamwork removes the defensiveness.

3. Spot the signs of emotional overload.

Irritability, withdrawal, or sudden anger can sometimes mask depression or anxiety. Men don’t always recognise those symptoms in themselves.

If you notice a shift, gently check in. “You seem a bit off lately — are you okay?” can open a door. The key is calm compassion, not confrontation.

4. Support healthy outlets — not pressure.

Exercise, sleep, social connection, and downtime aren’t luxuries; they’re lifelines. But men often feel guilty prioritising them. Help normalise the idea that self-care isn’t just for women.

Encourage small, doable changes: a weekly walk with a friend, joining a team, or even a screen-free evening. And yes, praise helps — validation isn’t gendered.

5. Model openness at home.

Kids learn from what they see. When we talk honestly about emotions, stress, and wellbeing, we teach the next generation — especially boys — that vulnerability is human, not shameful.

Saying, “I had a tough day today” or “I’m feeling anxious, so I’m going for a walk” normalises self-awareness for everyone.

6. Remember — it’s not about fixing, it’s about supporting.

You can’t force someone to open up or change habits. But you can be the safe place that makes it easier. Encourage, don’t criticise. Listen, don’t jump to solve. The small moments of care — the quiet check-ins, the empathy, the shared laugh — those matter more than grand gestures.

Because men’s health isn’t just their issue. It’s a family one, a relationship one, a community one.

So this Movember, let’s make it normal — not awkward — to ask, to listen, and to care.

Sometimes the best thing we can do for the men we love… is simply remind them they don’t have to do it all alone.