Mental health challenges among boys and young men are at an all-time high, with loneliness, social isolation, and mental health crises becoming increasingly prevalent. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to focus on how to better support young men in addressing their mental well-being. Statistics show that young men are less likely to seek help and are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges, including being four times more likely to die by suicide than women in the U.S.
Brian O’Connor, vice president at Futures Without Violence, states that addressing these issues starts with providing young men with the right role models and tools to form healthy relationships. Futures Without Violence has been working to combat this crisis through programs like Team: Changing Minds (T:CM), which equips trusted adults such as sports coaches, teachers, and community leaders with the skills to recognize early signs of mental health struggles in young men.
Here are four ways family, friends, and mentors can support young men’s mental health:
1. Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions showing concern. If you notice any changes in behavior or mood, gently bring them up. Something simple like, “You’ve seemed quieter than usual; is everything okay?” can help open up a conversation and show your care.
2. Listen to Understand (Not to Respond)
Listening with empathy is crucial. Make sure to really hear what the young men in your life are saying. This creates an environment where they feel safe to open up when they’re struggling, knowing they are truly being listened to without judgment.
3. Ask for Help
You don’t need to have all the answers. Reach out to professionals, such as school counselors or pediatricians, for guidance. Building a support team with trusted experts ensures that young men can get the help they need without relying on just one person to carry the burden.
4. Utilize Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. It’s an important resource for immediate support and connects individuals with trained professionals.
How You Can Get Involved:
To become part of the solution, consider becoming a responder for Team Changing Minds by visiting their website, or support the efforts of Futures Without Violence in raising awareness about the mental health crisis affecting young men.
Every action, no matter how small, can make a big difference in supporting young men to create healthier, more positive futures.
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