Understanding and Preventing Suicide Among Men
Men are 3.63 times more likely to die by suicide.
White men make up a massive share of suicide deaths in the U.S., accounting for 69.38% of all deaths in 2019.
Despite these shocking numbers, pervasive ideas about masculinity, weakness and shame limit honest conversations—on the societal and personal level—about suicide. This stands in the way of saving many lives.
Despite promising recent trends indicating otherwise, our culture has deeply ingrained and rigid expectations for how men are expected to handle difficult situations, emotions and thoughts. Men are often taught to avoid showing weakness. That, instead, they should just “man up” and fight through tough times without expressions their emotions.
This understanding of masculinity creates shame and brings on additional difficulty. Men are less likely to fully acknowledge challenges and frustrations or seek help from loved ones or mental health professionals. This can make behaviors like drug or alcohol abuse, violence and suicide seem like solutions.
Cultural issues can be compounded by other suicide risk factors related to mental and physical health, family history and life experiences. Untreated depression, substance addiction or abuse, chronic pain, family history of mental illness or suicide, spending time in jail or prison, having a marginalized sexual orientation, military trauma and exposure to others’ suicidal behavior can all contribute to a man’s risk of suicide.
Understanding the risk factors and warning signs associated with suicide is an important factor in suicide prevention. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, signs to look out for can include:
Changes in personality, such as increased anxiety and depression, or extreme mood wings
Frequent discussion of death or suicide
Significant changes to routine, including isolation and disruptions in normal eating or sleeping habits
Abuse of alcohol or drugs
These symptoms are not all encompassing, and your loved one may behave differently or try to “cover up” their feelings. However, if you notice these or other signs, the National Alliance on Mental Illness and National Institute of Mental Health advise that you intervene and ask your loved one if he’s had thoughts of suicide. Then, listen to their experience and feelings without judgment, help them talk through his emotions and connect them to professional help. In addition, you should keep him away from dangerous objects or substances, like firearms or potentially lethal medication.
While talking with a friend or loved one about suicide may be difficult, and it takes great courage, it is an important step in reducing stigma around mental health and preventing suicide. Simply starting the conversation can save a life.
If you or a loved one are in crisis, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 for free, confidential support at 1-800-273-8255.
Access to professional mental health treatment, like therapy and medication management, is also critical in preventing suicide. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our resource guide tailored to men’s concerns or contact our office at (662) 234-7601.