Gendered Coping Patterns: Advancing Healthy Help-Seeking Behaviours in Men

Abstract

Despite growing awareness of mental health needs, men remain significantly less likely than women to seek professional or social support when experiencing psychological distress. Cultural expectations of stoicism, fear of stigma, and gender role socialisation contribute to a tendency for men to rely on solitary problem-solving rather than verbal expression. This article examines existing research on gendered coping mechanisms and the impact of silence on men’s well-being. It further proposes evidence-based interventions, including reframing help-seeking as a sign of resilience, integrating peer-support models, and designing male-friendly therapeutic outreach. By aligning mental health promotion with masculine norms of strength and responsibility, men can be encouraged to engage in healthier coping strategies, ultimately reducing the burden of untreated mental health conditions.