October is Mental Health Month in Australia – a time to turn up the volume on conversations about men’s mental health and wellbeing. It’s a chance to reduce stigma, encourage support-seeking, and remind men they don’t have to face tough times alone.
The numbers tell a sobering story. Two in five men will experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime, and suicide remains the leading cause of death for males under 55. Men account for three out of four suicides, and those without close friends are twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts. Men who are out of work, or going through separation, also face a higher risk of depression.
At the heart of the month is World Mental Health Day on October 10, a global reminder to connect, support one another, and raise awareness of mental health issues.
Taking Action
While the statistics are revealing, there are proven steps men can take to strengthen their mental health. These are outlined in the free, ready-to-use Know Your Man Facts toolkit, which comes with an end-to-end presentation, speaker notes, and ideas for interactive discussions that can be run in any setting. Keeping physically active is highly rated, as is staying socially connected and checking in on a mate who you think is struggling.
Grassroots Movements Leading the Way
Across the country, grassroots men’s groups are helping create positive spaces for connection and conversation:
- Tough Guy Book Club – Men meet in pubs to discuss books and life.
- The Men’s Table – Small groups of men share openly over dinner once a month.
- Grab Life By The Balls – Coffee catch-ups and BBQs building mateship.
- The Man Walk – 80+ walking groups across Australia offering positive, supportive environments.
- Mr Perfect – Nationwide BBQs and online forums creating a judgment-free culture.
A Call to Men Everywhere
This October, men across Australia are encouraged to take action—whether it’s checking in with a mate, joining a group, or downloading resources like Know Your Man Facts. Every step helps reduce stigma, build stronger connections, and prevent lives being cut short.
Workplaces and Community Groups Can Lead Change
Workplaces, sports clubs, and community organisations are uniquely placed to reach men where they live, work, and socialise. This month is the perfect time to:
- Host a Know Your Man Facts session on Men’s Mental Health
- Organise a walk, BBQ, or coffee catch-up
- Share stories and resources that normalise talking about mental health
- Encourage staff and members to check in on their mates
National Men’s Health Gathering
For those looking to go the extra distance – quite literally – the National Men’s Health Gathering (hosted by the Australian Men’s Health Forum) is running from 22-24 October at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
The extensive 3-day program includes a strong focus on men’s mental health and wellbeing, including a men’s sector showcase on men’s circles and gatherings, featuring ex-NRL legend Ryan Girdler. The 2003 Penrith Panthers’ champion struggled after retirement and now works to help men discover what it means to thrive and what makes men healthy.
There are also sessions on reaching men in rural communities, the magic of men’s sheds for older males, community-based approaches to connecting men and embedding lived experience in men’s mental health support.