From 9 to 15 June 2025, the team here at Kingdom Academy proudly supports Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week, a national campaign led by the Men’s Health Forum. This year’s theme, “Shoulder to Shoulder: Connecting for Health,” emphasises the importance of connection, support, and open conversation – especially in learning and workplace environments where wellbeing is vital for success.
Why Men’s Mental Health Week Matters
The statistics highlight a clear and urgent need for change:
- One in five men dies before the age of 65. This underscores the necessity for proactive health measures and support systems for men. (Source: Men’s Health Forum)
- Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 35, with men accounting for approximately 75% of all suicides in the UK. (Source: UK Government)
- Half of all men experience mental health issues, yet fewer than half have sought medical advice. (Source: Reed)
- 37% of UK men admit to hiding their mental health struggles from their partners. (Source: OnRec)
- 30% of men don’t know where to turn for support, indicating a significant gap in accessible mental health resources. (Source: PwRPas)
- 65% of employees say stigma around men’s mental health remains strong, underscoring the need for cultural change in workplaces. (Source: OnRec)
These figures underscore the urgent need to break the silence and create safe spaces for men to talk, seek help, and heal.
The Housing Sector: Unique Pressures on Men's Mental Health
Men working in the housing sector – whether in construction, maintenance, or frontline services – face unique challenges that can impact their mental wellbeing.
- High-Stress Environments: The construction industry, a significant part of the housing sector, has one of the highest suicide rates among professions. Workers often deal with long hours, job insecurity, and physically demanding tasks, contributing to mental health issues.
Source: Inside Housing - Exposure to Poor Living Conditions: Housing professionals frequently encounter residents living in substandard conditions, such as damp, mould, and overcrowding. Witnessing these situations regularly can lead to emotional fatigue and stress.
- Stigma and Masculinity Norms: Traditional masculine norms prevalent in the sector may discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help, exacerbating mental health issues.
- Lack of Support Structures: Many housing sector workplaces lack adequate mental health support systems, leaving employees without necessary resources to cope with stress and emotional challenges.
Understanding these sector-specific pressures is crucial in developing targeted mental health support for men in the housing industry.
How Kingdom Academy Supports Men’s Mental Health
At Kingdom Academy, we believe that learning thrives when people feel safe, heard, and supported. That includes recognising the unique challenges men face regarding mental health. We are committed to:
- Creating space for open conversations between learners, tutors, and mentors.
- Encouraging male learners to reach out when they need help, without fear of judgment.
- Challenging outdated ideas about what it means to be strong or successful.
- Equipping employers and managers with tools to foster healthier, more inclusive workplaces.
Whether you’re a learner balancing study and work pressures, a line manager supporting your team, or a colleague looking to make a difference, you have a role to play.
How You Can Make a Difference
Here are five ways to help create safer, more supportive environments:
- Start the Conversation: Ask how someone is doing and genuinely listen. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make a huge difference.
- Create Safe Spaces: Encourage open dialogue at home and in the workplace. Avoid judgment and validate feelings.
- Promote Mental Health Days: Support men in taking time off for mental health check-ups or rest, just as they would for physical health.
- Share Resources: Ensure men know where to find help. Share helplines, websites, and local support groups.
- Challenge Stigma: Speak up against harmful stereotypes like “man up” or “boys don’t cry.” Normalise vulnerability and emotional expression.
Trusted UK Resources for Men
If you or someone you know is struggling, here are some trusted UK-based resources:
- Men’s Health Forum: Offers health information, toolkits, and campaigns tailored to men.
- ANDYSMANCLUB: Provides peer support groups across the UK, encouraging men to talk openly about their mental health.
- Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): Offers a free, confidential helpline and webchat for men in crisis.
- Mind: Provides mental health support, including local services and peer support.
- Samaritans: Available 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress. Call 116 123.
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2025: Breaking the Silence, Building Support
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week is more than a campaign – it’s a call to action. Whether you are a learner, a mentor, a line manager or a loved one of someone who is going through mental health challenges, please know that there is support available – and you can visit our learner hub at anytime for help and resources.