Why This Conversation Matters 

At We Are Power, we’ve been working with businesses and communities to drive cultural change through advocacy and allyship, from the Northern PoWEr Women Awards Advocacy Programme to our growing Advocacy List. That experience gives us a perspective we hope is useful in sharing thoughts on why this topic matters. 

This Men’s Mental Health Month, we’re highlighting the link between allyship and wellbeing because it sits at the heart of that mission. While awareness of men’s mental health has grown, it remains a significant issue. Many men still find it hard to open up or lack support networks. In 2025, around 15% of men in England are estimated to be living with a common mental health problem (Centre for Mental Health, 2025). 

Workplace support is also lacking for many: 42% of men aged 25‑34 report that their workplace offers no mental health support at all (Employee Benefits, 2025). To achieve true workplace equality, it’s important to address this imbalance, creating spaces where men feel supported to open up and seek help. Encouraging male allyship, where men actively advocate for inclusion and equality, can help make this possible. Equality and wellbeing aren’t separate issues, they’re deeply connected parts of a healthier, more human workplace. 

What Is Male Allyship (and Advocacy) in the Workplace? 

In a business context, advocacy means using your voice, influence, and privilege to create fairer systems and support others, not speaking for them, but standing beside them. Male allyship in the workplace is a form of this advocacy. It’s when men actively support gender equality, challenge bias, and help create cultures where everyone, including men, can bring their whole selves to work. True gender allyship goes beyond policies; it’s about everyday actions that show empathy, respect, and courage. 

Why Allyship and Men’s Mental Health Are Connected 

Studies show that men are significantly less likely to seek support for mental health issues, often due to stigma and the pressure to “man up.” In workplaces where empathy and equality are modelled by leaders and peers, men feel safer to be vulnerable and seek help. That’s where allyship comes in. When men advocate for inclusion, they also develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to listen and support others. This not only benefits colleagues but also helps create a culture where men feel safe to speak openly about their own challenges. Promoting men’s mental health and allyship together builds workplaces where openness, understanding, and wellbeing are valued for everyone. 

Stats Don’t Lie 

Despite growing awareness, men still face unique mental health challenges. According to Mind, one in eight men experience common mental health problems like anxiety or depression, and ONS data shows that men make up around 75% of suicides in the UK. These figures highlight the importance of addressing men’s mental health openly, especially in workplaces where long hours, financial pressure, and performance culture can amplify stress. 

• Around 1 in 8 men in the UK have a common mental health problem such as anxiety or depression (Mind). 
• 75% of suicides in the UK are by men (ONS, 2024). 
• Men aged 40–49 are the highest-risk group for suicide. 
• Workplace stress is cited as a top factor in declining men’s mental health (CIPD). 

Breaking the “Man Up” Culture 

The old “man up” mindset tells men to hide their struggles, stay silent, and push through, but silence can be deadly. Male allyship challenges this by normalising emotional honesty, compassion, and support. Changing workplace culture starts with everyday conversations that replace judgment with understanding. 

How Businesses Can Support Allyship and Wellbeing 

Businesses have a powerful role in building environments that support both male allyship and mental wellbeing. Simple steps can include: 

• Peer support networks that connect men across roles and levels. 
• Mentorship schemes where men learn to advocate for equality and care. 
• Inclusive wellbeing programs that address everyone’s needs, not just one gender. 
• Training leaders on empathy, listening, and mental health awareness. 

Where to Find Support 

If you or someone you know is struggling, there are organisations dedicated to men’s mental health. Charities like Movember, CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), and Mind offer free resources, helplines, and community support.  

Conclusion: Equality and Wellbeing Go Hand in Hand 

Supporting men’s mental health and building male allyship go hand in hand. When workplaces embrace both, everyone benefits: people feel safer, teams collaborate better, and the culture becomes genuinely inclusive. This Men’s Mental Health Month, let’s make allyship not just something we talk about, but something we live, for our colleagues, for our communities, and for ourselves. 

You can also check out our 'From Performative Allyship to Last Impact' webinar to carry on the conversation and get more insights!