Ah, the classic British workplace where small talk about the weather is an art form, tea solves 99% of problems, and stress? Well, that just gets bottled up like a fine single malt. But let’s be real: no amount of biscuits in the break room can fix a silent mental health struggle. Mesi Balog and Anita Zezelj from Treat Your Staff workplace and event wellness consultancy discuss men’s mental health in the workplace ahead of Men’s Health Week 9-15 June…
The silent struggle (a.k.a. ‘I’m fine’ syndrome)
For decades, society has sold men the idea that emotions should be tucked away neatly, like an unused gym membership. As a result, many struggle in silence, with stress and mental health issues bubbling under the surface. The stats don’t lie, sadly suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK, and many admit they find it difficult to ask for help.
And then there’s the workplace. Tight deadlines, performance pressures, and the never-ending inbox of doom all contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Yet, many men still feel like admitting they’re struggling is a one-way ticket to being seen as ‘weak.’ Spoiler alert: it’s not.
Why men bottle it up
So why do so many men still hesitate to open up? A few reasons:
Old-school stereotypes–that ‘stiff upper lip’ culture is still hanging around like an awkward colleague at after-work drinks.
The cycle of silence–if no one else is talking about their struggles, why should they be the first to do it?
Lack of workplace support–some companies still see mental health as a ‘nice-to-have’ rather than a must-have.
The result? Stress builds up, well-being takes a nosedive, and productivity (not to mention happiness) gets hit hard.
Breaking the cycle: how workplaces can help
A healthy workplace doesn’t just mean free fruit and a ping-pong table – it means creating an environment where people feel supported, heard, and empowered to look after their mental health. Here’s how we can start changing the conversation:
Encourage open chats – A ‘How are you?’ should mean more than just a polite greeting. Create spaces where employees can talk openly without fear of judgment.
Flexible working for real life – Whether it’s stress from work, family, or just needing a mental breather, flexible work arrangements can be game-changers.
Make support easy to access – Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), mental health first aiders, and well-being resources should be as normal as having an IT help desk.
Lead by example – When leaders open up about their own experiences, it shows that talking about mental health isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength.
It’s okay to talk (really, it is)
The good news? Change is happening. Treat Your Staff’s Men’s Circles are creating safe spaces in the corporate environment, where men can talk openly about their mental health without fear of judgment. Our message is simple but powerful: It’s okay to talk.
So, whether it’s a casual chat with a colleague, a check-in with HR, or just taking a break when you need it, let’s make the workplace a space where mental health isn’t an afterthought. Because looking after your mind is just as important as hitting that deadline.
Mesi Balog is also PA Life magazine’s wellness columnist. You can read her column published first in our summer issue on how to organise a great wellness week for your office.
