Breaking Barriers: Nurturing Mental Health Awareness Among Men

Counselling
1 day ago
2 min read

conversations around mental health are becoming more open—but for many men, seeking emotional support remains a challenge. Deep-rooted stigmas, societal expectations, and a culture of silence often prevent men from acknowledging mental health struggles, let alone asking for help.

At Equinox Counselling in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, we’re dedicated to breaking these barriers and supporting men on their journey toward better mental well-being.

Why Men Often Avoid Seeking Help

Despite growing awareness, statistics still show that:

Only 36% of NHS referrals for therapy are men
Suicide is the leading cause of death in men under 50 in the UK
Many men delay seeking help until symptoms become severe

Common reasons for reluctance include:

Fear of appearing weak or vulnerable
Pressure to "man up" and hide emotions
Lack of awareness about mental health symptoms
Social stigma or shame associated with therapy

equinox counselling provide professional mental helth wellbeing

Key Mental Health Issues Men Face

Men can experience a wide range of emotional difficulties. At Equinox Counselling, we regularly support male clients struggling with:

Depression
Anxiety and panic attacks
Anger management
Low self-esteem
Work-related stress and burnout
Bereavement or relationship breakdown
Addiction and destructive coping behaviours
Feelings of isolation or disconnection

How Counselling Supports Men’s Mental Health

Seeking help is not a weakness—it’s a powerful act of strength and self-awareness. Counselling provides men with a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore difficult thoughts and emotions.

At Equinox Counselling, therapy can help men:

Develop healthier coping strategies
Improve communication and emotional expression
Reduce anxiety and stress levels
Boost confidence and self-worth
Reconnect with partners, children, and loved ones
Address unresolved trauma or grief

Signs It May Be Time to Talk to Someone

Not sure if counselling is right for you? Here are some signs you may benefit from therapy:

Feeling overwhelmed or constantly stressed
Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
Withdrawing from relationships or hobbies
Frequent anger, irritability, or emotional numbness
Struggling with work performance or motivation
Using substances to cope with emotions

If any of these sound familiar, know that you’re not alone—and help is available.

Professional Counselling in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset

At Equinox Counselling, we provide professional and confidential support tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for one-to-one therapy, online video counselling, or private in-person sessions, we’re here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. Located in Weston-super-Mare, we support clients across North Somerset, including Taunton, Bristol, and surrounding areas.