It’s normal to have ups and downs in your mood, and feeling sad every now and then is something everyone experiences. But mental health concerns are increasing, especially among men. 

A 2019 survey carried out by Mind found that 43% of men admit to regularly feeling worried or low, an increase from 37% in 2009 (Mind, 2019: 4). More concerning is that the number of men feeling worried or low has increased at double the rate of women over the last decade (Mind, 2019: 6). 

So what’s happening with men’s mental health?  

There is a perceived stigma around men struggling with their mental health. Rooted in traditional gender stereotypes of men being strong, men and boys may fear being seen as ‘weak’ or feel they should be able to get through problems with willpower alone. This may mean they are less likely to open up and seek help. 

It's important to note that that for some groups, there can be additional barriers to accessing support. Mind’s report states that “men and boys from BAME groups are far more likely to experience severe mental ill health but less likely to access the support they need (2019:16). This can be due to mistrust of mental health services due to previous discrimination, as well as heightened stigma.  

It’s vital that work is done to radically improve the experiences of ethnic minority groups in mental health settings, but it’s also important for us to take our own steps to overcome negative social attitudes to mental health. 

The statistics about suicide are troubling, too. Suicide kills someone every 90 minutes in the UK alone, making it the leading killer of men under 50 in the UK (Department of Health and Social Care, 2022). We want to change this.  

What are we doing?

Wellbeing and Community Officer Bibin Bobachan is hosting a range of events to encourage students to get out, talk to others, and do activities that support wellbeing and good mental health. Some of these are aimed specifically at men, to encourage open conversations with fellow students that break down the stigma around men’s mental health.  

Seeking support doesn’t have to be through formal channels. Just talking to your friends and getting involved in activities such as these can go a long way towards relieving a weight on your shoulders.  

This page covers both ways to look after your mental wellbeing, and helpful information and resources to help you feel better if you are suffering.  

Prevention is better than cure: how to look after your wellbeing 

Making connections 

Socialising and building a community is essential in maintaining good mental health. Without doing so it can be easy to feel isolated at University, and loneliness can be linked to mental health problems. 

Getting stuck in and socialising creates opportunities to have fun and get out of the house. It also means that if you start to struggle, there are people to talk to.   

The Students’ Union is a great place to start. We offer student groups, covering things like academic subjects as well as hobbies, cultures and communities, and offer a wide range of events to get you meeting people and having fun.  

Being active 

There is a strong link between staying active and better mental health. Exercise is one of the best ways to destress and improve your mood. It often also helps you meet people, get outside, and improve your confidence – all with benefits for your mental health. Find out more here. 

As a student at the University of East London, you benefit from free off-peak membership at SportsDock. There’s loads going on there, from gym facilities to group classes. 

Healthy diet 

It’s also important to be mindful of what you eat. A healthy, balanced diet will keep you feeling your best both physically and mentally. Find out more here.  

If the struggles you are having are linked to food or eating, we encourage you to read this page and seek support. 

Getting good sleep 

Sleep is vital for us to feel our best, and difficulty sleeping is linked to issues including anxiety and depression. It can be hard to prioritise getting enough good quality sleep at uni, but you will feel the benefits if you do! Check out this page for tips on sleeping better. 

Other things to consider 

Personal finances are a common source of stress and anxiety, and with the cost of living rising, it’s more widespread than ever. If you are struggling with money, there are lots of campus initiatives to help you save. Visit this webpage to discover them. 

It’s also important to be mindful of your personal safety. One way you can do so is by downloading the SafeZone app, which will help to keep you safe on our campuses. 

Mental health support and resources 

If you do start to struggle with your mental health, there is loads of support available to you. There’s no shame in struggling, and we really encourage you to reach out for help. 

• - Student Wellbeing Service: The University has a team dedicated to student wellbeing. They offer services like stress management programmes, counselling, workshops and lifestyle programmes.  

• - Health Assured app and Student Assistance Programme: You can access confidential 24/7  support regarding any problems you’re experiencing – whether they’re to do with your home life, education, health or general wellbeing, as well as lots of other helpful app features.  

• - Samaritans: If you’re struggling to cope, in emotional distress or dealing with suicidal thoughts, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123. They will listen to you, providing non-judgmental human connection and attention.  

• - Mind: Mind is a mental health charity. Their website contains loads of information about different mental health conditions and ways to deal with them. They also offer support services including an information line (0300 123 3393) and online peer support. Find out more here. 

• - Calm: Calm (or the Campaign Against Living Miserably) is another mental health charity, focused on suicide prevention. They offer a range of guides on everything from exam stress to OCD, as well as an evening helpline and webchat. They’re open from 17:00 – midnight, but the guides are available 24/7. 

Sources: 

Men urged to talk about mental health to prevent suicide - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)  

get-it-off-your-chest_a4_final.pdf (mind.org.uk)