International Men’s Day

Men face unique challenges – higher rates of suicide, lower life expectancy, and increased prevalence of certain physical and mental health conditions. Yet many men are less likely to seek help when they need it most.

This silence doesn’t just affect individuals; it ripples through families, workplaces, and communities. It strains relationships, reduces productivity, and places greater pressure on healthcare systems when problems escalate^{reference 1}.

The global challenge

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), men experience higher rates of injury, self-harm, and suicide compared to women. Seventy per cent of deaths due to injuries occur in males, with road traffic fatalities heavily concentrated among young men under 25. Suicide rates are more than three times higher in males over 15 years of age^{reference 2}.

Work-related health risks compound these challenges. The WHO/ILO Global Monitoring Report shows that men face a significantly higher burden of occupational disease and injury. The death rate among working-age men is 51.4 per 100,000. This is three times higher than women – largely due to employment in high-risk sectors like construction and mining. Men are also more frequently exposed to hazards such as noise, vibration, radiation, UV exposure, falls, and chemical agents^{reference 3}.

Mental health and stigma

Mental health remains a critical concern. Despite high rates of stress and depression, men often avoid seeking help. Stigma plays a major role, with many fearing being perceived as weak or incapable. According to the BUPA Wellbeing Index, 50 per cent of men have experienced mental health difficulties, but less than half have sought medical help. Alarmingly, 43 per cent of working men are calling for better mental health support from their employers.

The workplace is a key setting for change. In 2024-25, 95 per cent of those who died from fatal injuries sustained at work were men. The non-fatal injury rate was higher for male workers than for women. Of the 13,000 annual deaths linked to past workplace exposures, 75 per cent are male. This reflects men’s greater exposure to hazards such as asbestos, diesel exhaust, and shift work.

Role of health and safety professionals

Employers and occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals have a vital role to play in addressing these risks and promoting wellbeing. Opening conversations, encouraging early action and normalising support-seeking helps create a culture where men feel safe, supported and strong – at work and beyond.

References

1. Men’s Health Report – Bupa Wellbeing Index 2025: Lifting the Lid of Men's Health Report (PDF 0.9MB)
2. World Health Organization – Strategy on the health and well-being of men in the WHO European Region
3. European Agency for Safety and Health at Work – Burden of occupational diseases