Unmasking Men’s Mental Health: Breaking the Silence During Men’s Mental Health Week

Jun 10, 2025

June 9–16, 2025

For too long, men in our community have been taught to “man up,” tuck away their feelings, and soldier on alone. These expectations—driven by cultural norms and outdated ideas of masculinity—keep too many of our fathers, brothers, sons and friends behind closed doors, wearing invisible masks that conceal their pain.

The Masks We Wear in Our Community

Across Canada, men die by suicide at three times the rate of women. Of the roughly 4,000 suicides each year, nearly 75% are men—many of them living right here in our region. While not every story makes the headlines, the impact is felt deeply in our neighbourhoods, workplaces and families. And too often, men delay or avoid seeking help because “being tough” feels like the only option.

The Reality in Peel–Dufferin

• Higher Risk, Lower Service Use: Men are significantly less likely to reach out for counselling or community supports, even when services are available close to home.
• Hidden Struggles: From the factory floor to the office, from the ball diamond to the schoolyard, men face depression, anxiety, substance-use pressures and relationship strains—yet many believe they must bear it quietly.
• Collective Toll: Each silent struggle reverberates through our workplaces, our homes and our youth programs, where boys learn the same lessons about hiding emotions unless we intervene.

Reframing Strength—Together

At CMHA Peel Dufferin, we know true strength comes from vulnerability, empathy and reaching out. That’s why on June 13th for Men’s Mental Health Awareness Day we’re offering:

• Self-Advocacy for Mental Health (Virtual Workshop)
• Breathe to Reset: Guided Breathwork Session

Want to connect with other men in a supportive setting?
Drop in to our Men’s Support Group every Tuesday at 5 PM
601–7700 Hurontario Street (Recovery West)

When I first walked into a Men’s Circle, I thought I’d be lectured. Instead, I found a group of ordinary guys sharing stories, cracking jokes and admitting the same fears I had. I realized I wasn’t alone—and that changed everything.

-Peer Supporter

How You Can Make a Difference

• Start the Conversation: Ask the men in your life, “How are you really doing?” and listen—no fixing, no judgment.
• Normalize Professional Help: Remind friends and colleagues that talking to a counsellor is as routine as seeing a doctor for a sore throat.
• Share Local Resources:
  • CMHA Peel Dufferin Services: Individual and group counselling, crisis support, virtual workshops, and peer-led groups.
  • Quick Guides: Local resources designed to connect you with mental health services and supports in Peel and Dufferin.
• Challenge Toxic Masculinity: Encourage boys and men you know to value empathy, share feelings and redefine what strength means in 2025.

Men’s Mental Health Week runs June 9 – 16, 2025. Let’s commit—as a community—to creating a world where men feel safe enough to unmask what they’re really feeling.

Need Support? We’re Here.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone—and help is available right here in our community.

• Call us at 905-451-2123 or 1-877-451-2123 to access mental health support, counselling, and more.
• In Crisis? Contact 24.7 Crisis Support Peel Dufferin at 905-278-9036 or 1-888-811-2222—available anytime.
• At risk of homelessness? Call the Street Helpline at 1-877-848-8481.
• Thinking about suicide? Call or text 9-8-8—free, confidential, and available 24/7.

No matter where you are in your journey, reaching out is a sign of strength. Let’s keep the conversation going—during Men’s Mental Health Week and beyond.

For any partnership or media inquiries, please reach out to communications@cmhapeel.ca