Mental Health Challenges

Men are disproportionately affected by certain mental health issues, often due to societal expectations of stoicism and strength. Common problems include:

• Anxiety and depression – Men are less likely to seek help, partly because of stigma and fear of appearing weak HeadsUpGuys+1.

• Suicidality – Men account for about 7 out of 10 global suicides, and suicide is a leading cause of death for men under 50 in the U.S. HeadsUpGuys.

• Substance use disorders – Men develop these at 1.5–2.3 times the rate of women Verywell Health.

• ADHD – Men are more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder Verywell Health.

These issues are often compounded by social norms that discourage emotional expression, leading to isolation and untreated conditions.

Physical Health Issues

Men also face higher rates of certain chronic diseases:

• Cardiovascular disease – Affects about half of all adults; heart attacks and strokes are leading causes of death Cleveland Clinic.

• Diabetes – About 1 in 9 U.S. adults has diabetes, increasing risk for heart disease, kidney, nerve, and eye damage Cleveland Clinic.

• Prostate cancer – One of the most common cancers in men, often asymptomatic until advanced stages Regional Medical Center.

• Testicular cancer – More common in younger men (15–35 years) than older men Regional Medical Center.

• Melanoma – Men have higher rates of this skin cancer than women Regional Medical Center.

• Gout and kidney stones – More prevalent in men due to hormonal and lifestyle factors