Every November, men around Australia grow moustaches in support of Movember, the leading charity changing the face of men’s health. What started as a light-hearted campaign to raise awareness has grown into a global movement tackling serious issues – including suicide prevention, mental health, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.

While the moustaches might be temporary, the conversation they spark is life-saving.

This Movember, we’re focusing on men’s mental health – what it means to stay mentally healthy, why connection matters, and how early support can make a real difference.

The State of Men’s Mental Health in Australia

Men’s mental health is a growing public health concern in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), around 1 in 8 men will experience depression and 1 in 5 will experience anxiety at some point in their lives. Yet, many men are reluctant to seek help.

Tragically, the numbers tell a sobering story.

  • Three out of every four suicides in Australia are by men.
  • That’s an average of 7 men every day who die by suicide (ABS, 2023).
  • Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men aged 15-44 years.

Behind these numbers are fathers, brothers, partners, colleagues, and mates – many of whom felt they couldn’t reach out for help.

But here’s the hopeful part: suicide is preventable, and mental health challenges can be treated. Early intervention, connection, and understanding can change lives – and save them.

Why Men Often Struggle to Reach Out

For generations, Australian men have been taught to “tough it out” – to push through stress, hide emotions, and keep problems to themselves. While resilience is often celebrated, it can become a barrier when it stops men from getting help.

Research shows that men are less likely than women to recognise symptoms of mental distress, to talk about their struggles, or to seek professional support. Many men only reach out when things have reached crisis point – often through a partner, family member, or GP.

Common reasons men hesitate include:

  • Believing they should be able to handle it alone.
  • Fear of appearing weak or vulnerable.
  • Not knowing where to start or what therapy involves.
  • Lack of time or flexibility around work.

At MyLife Psychologists, we see every day how these barriers can fade when men feel safe, respected, and understood. Therapy isn’t about weakness – it’s about learning the skills and tools to live a healthier, more meaningful life.

Prevention: Staying Mentally Healthy Before Things Get Tough

Mental health isn’t only about dealing with problems – it’s about staying well. Just as physical fitness helps prevent illness, mental fitness helps you cope better with life’s ups and downs.

Here are some practical, evidence-based strategies that support men’s mental wellbeing:

1. Stay Connected

Connection is one of the strongest protectors against mental ill-health. Having mates you can talk to – not just about sport or work, but about what’s really going on – makes a huge difference.

  • Make time for regular catch-ups with friends or family.
  • Join a sports club, community group, or hobby that keeps you connected.
  • Check in with a mate you haven’t heard from in a while – it might help both of you.

2. Move Your Body

Exercise isn’t just for physical health – it’s one of the most powerful tools for mental wellbeing. Regular activity releases endorphins, reduces stress hormones, and improves sleep and concentration.

  • Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
  • Choose activities you enjoy – whether that’s cycling, swimming, or walking the dog.
  • Even short bursts of movement (like a quick walk on your lunch break) can make a difference.

3. Sleep and Rest

Men often underestimate how much poor sleep affects mood, focus, and motivation. Prioritising sleep isn’t lazy – it’s essential for brain health.

  • Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
  • Limit screens and caffeine before bed.
  • Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down.

4. Limit Alcohol and Substance Use

While having a drink with mates can feel relaxing, relying on alcohol or drugs to cope with stress can worsen anxiety and depression over time.

If you notice you’re drinking more often or finding it hard to stop, it might be a sign to check in with a GP or psychologist. There’s no shame in seeking help – and support is confidential.

5. Mind Your Stress

Chronic stress takes a toll on the body and mind. Learning to manage it early can prevent burnout and mental health problems down the track. Try:

  • Practising deep breathing or mindfulness.
  • Taking regular breaks at work.
  • Setting realistic expectations for yourself.

6. Know Your Warning Signs

Everyone has different early signs that they’re not coping – such as irritability, fatigue, losing interest in things, or withdrawing from others. The earlier you notice these signs, the sooner you can act.

Connection: The Antidote to Isolation

Loneliness has been described as one of the biggest health challenges of our time. Studies show it can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, heart disease, and even early death.

Men, especially in middle age, are at high risk of social isolation – often due to long work hours, family changes, or the loss of social networks.

How to build and maintain social connection:

  • Prioritise relationships: Schedule time to catch up with friends, even when life is busy.
  • Join a community: Volunteering, team sports, or interest groups are great ways to meet like-minded people.
  • Talk about more than surface topics: Being open about challenges helps deepen connection.
  • Reach out for support: If a mate seems off, ask how he’s doing – twice. It might encourage him to open up.

Early Intervention: Don’t Wait Until It’s a Crisis

Mental health problems rarely appear overnight – they tend to build up gradually. That’s why early intervention is key.

The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can get back on track. Early support can help prevent issues like anxiety, depression, or burnout from becoming more severe or chronic.

So what does early support look like?

  • Talking to your GP about how you’re feeling.
  • Reaching out to a psychologist to build coping skills.
  • Using confidential online programs such as Head to Health, MensLine Australia, or Beyond Blue.

Seeing a psychologist doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you – it’s about taking responsibility for your wellbeing.

At MyLife Psychologists, our team works with men from all walks of life – from young professionals and new dads to tradies and retirees. We use evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy to help men build resilience, manage emotions, and improve relationships.

Therapy can help you:

  • Understand and manage stress and anger.
  • Improve communication and connection in relationships.
  • Cope with major life transitions (e.g. redundancy, fatherhood, divorce).
  • Navigate grief, loss, or loneliness.
  • Build confidence and purpose.

Changing the Conversation About Men’s Mental Health

Improving men’s mental health isn’t only about treating illness – it’s also about changing culture.

When men see other men talk openly about their emotions, seek help, or prioritise self-care, it challenges outdated stereotypes of masculinity.

We all have a role to play, and here’s how we can help shift the narrative

  • Normalise mental health check-ins: Encourage your mates to talk about stress or worries.
  • Make workplaces safer for conversations: Support mental health days, flexible work, and open dialogue.
  • Share stories: Real stories of recovery can inspire others to reach out.
  • Lead by example: When men model self-care, it gives permission for others to do the same.

At MyLife Psychologists, we believe in preventative mental health care – just like you’d see a GP for a check-up, seeing a psychologist can be a proactive way to stay mentally healthy.

Suicide Prevention: What You Can Do

Suicide is complex, but it’s also preventable. You don’t need to be a mental health professional to make a difference.

If you notice a friend, colleague, or family member isn’t themselves – maybe they’ve withdrawn, lost interest in things, or seem unusually irritable – trust your gut.

Here’s how to start the conversation:

  1. Ask directly – “I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself lately. Are you OK?”
  2. Listen without judgment – Let them talk, even if it’s uncomfortable.
  3. Encourage action – Suggest they see a GP, psychologist, or call a helpline.
  4. Check in again – A follow-up can mean a lot.

If you’re worried someone is at immediate risk, contact one of the services listed below.

Movember mens mental health

The Takeaway: It’s OK to Talk About It

Growing a moustache might start the conversation – but taking action is what makes the real difference.

This Movember, let’s make it normal for men to:

  • Check in with their mates.
  • Talk openly about stress, anxiety, or feeling down.
  • Seek support early – before things get too heavy.

You don’t have to go through it alone. Talking to a psychologist can help you understand what’s going on, regain control, and learn strategies to live a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Take the First Step

If you’ve been feeling stressed, flat, or overwhelmed, now is the time to reach out. At MyLife Psychologists, we offer a safe, confidential space to talk things through and find practical ways forward.

Get in touch today to discuss which psychologist might be the best fit for you, or book your first appointment online today.

Taking care of your mental health is one of the best investments you can make in yourself – and those who care about you.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Immediate Support

References and Resources