Mens Mental Health Week

Men's Mental Health Week, observed every June, is a crucial time to shine a light on the often-overlooked issues surrounding men's mental health. Despite increasing awareness, many men still struggle in silence due to societal expectations and stigma. This week offers an opportunity to break that silence, foster open conversations, and promote mental well-being among men.

Men are frequently conditioned to embody strength, stoicism, and self-reliance. While these traits can be positive, they often discourage men from seeking help when they face mental health challenges. Statistics reveal a stark reality: men are less likely to receive mental health treatment compared to women, yet they are more likely to die by suicide. This paradox highlights the urgent need to address the barriers preventing men from accessing the support they need.

One of the most significant barriers is the stigma surrounding mental health. Many men fear being perceived as weak or vulnerable if they admit to experiencing mental health issues. To combat this, it's essential to create environments—whether at home, work, or in social circles—where men feel safe to express their feelings without judgment.

Open dialogue is a powerful tool in mental health advocacy. Encouraging men to talk about their experiences can help demystify mental health issues and demonstrate that it’s okay to seek help. Whether through support groups, therapy, or casual conversations with friends and family, sharing stories can foster understanding and empathy.

Practical Steps for Men’s Mental Health

Reach Out: If you're struggling, don't hesitate to talk to someone you trust. Professional help is also invaluable—therapists, counsellors, and hotlines are there to support you.

Stay Connected: Maintain strong social connections. Friends, family, and community groups can provide a support network that helps buffer against stress.

Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can significantly impact mental health. Physical well-being is closely linked to mental well-being.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises can reduce stress and improve overall mental health.

Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding mental health can reduce stigma and promote more supportive environments. Share resources and information to spread awareness.

Men's Mental Health Week is more than just an observance—it's a call to action. By addressing the unique challenges men face and promoting open, stigma-free conversations, we can make strides in mental health awareness and support. Let's use this week to break the silence and build a world where all men feel empowered to take care of their mental well-being.

You can download our resource with further details of support organisations

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Founding Director, Michelle, has been awarded an MBE in the Kings Birthday Honours for Family Support and Advocacy.

By PEGS Admin • June 15, 2026

Child to Parent Abuse organisation founder awarded MBE The founder of a social enterprise which has supported thousands of parents impacted by abusive behaviours from their children has been awarded an MBE. Michelle John, originally from Pembrokeshire in Wales but now based in Shropshire, was among the names announced for the prestigious accolade in the King’s Birthday Honours List this year. In 2020, Michelle set up not-for-profit organisation PEGS with the aim of supporting parents and carers, training professionals, influencing local and national policy, and raising awareness of Child to Parent Abuse – which is thought to affect up to one in ten households in the UK. Since then, she has grown a team of experts who have trained police, social workers, teachers and many other professionals to better recognise the signs of CPA, support parents, and signpost to specialist organisations. In addition, Michelle set up a range of parent-focused initiatives including daily practitioner-led online sessions, a Facebook peer support group which now has 3,300 members, and one-to-one offerings for those at highest risk. PEGS launched a CPA Covenant for employers in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions, only the fourth such covenant to be backed by the Government, and Michelle has advised everyone from the Home Office to Channel 4 and the BBC on CPA – the latter for storyline on Hollyoaks and EastEnders. Her work has seen CPA covered by journalists across television news programmes, national newspapers and magazine, and regional press and radio, and she’s received numerous awards both in the UK and internationally. Michelle, whose MBE was awarded for Family Support and Advocacy, said: “This honour is also shared with the parents who have trusted me along the way: they drive me, inspire me and I will always stand with them. “I feel proud, privileged and very grateful – and I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me and PEGS along the way. There is much more to come for PEGS, and we will continue to work every day for the parents and carers who have been or continue to be impacted by CPA. “There is so much to reflect on from the journey of the last six years, and there have been many highlights and challenges along the way. I am sure there will be many more in the future – although being told I’d received an MBE will always remain a truly incredible moment that I’ll remember forever!” For more information about us, visit www.pegsupport.co.uk or search for 'PEGS' on social media!