“I’m too embarrassed”, “I’ve learnt to deal with it”, “I don’t want to appear weak”, “I don’t wish to be a burden to anyone”, “There’s negative stigma around this type of thing”.

These are just some of the common phrases men share when asked why they stay silent about their mental health, especially in the workplace (Priori, 2021). And it’s not just anecdotal. This silence is part of a much deeper and more dangerous pattern: men are far less likely to speak up, seek help, or be offered support when struggling with their mental well-being. At a time when work-related stress, burnout, and isolation are on the rise, this has become more than just a personal issue, it’s a pressing public and organisational crisis.

Every June, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month draws attention to an issue that is too often overlooked: the emotional well-being of men, especially in the workplace. 

At Savant Recruitment, we recognise that behind every CV and job title is a person with challenges, aspirations, and the need for genuine support. That’s why we’re proud to use our platform to advocate for mental health awareness, challenge stigma, and promote workplaces that value the whole individual as much as their performance.

The Silent Struggle: Men and Mental Health at Work

Men are statistically less likely to seek help for mental health challenges, often due to cultural expectations, stigma, or fear of appearing vulnerable. Yet, the modern workplace brings with it high stress, long hours, and increasing pressure to “power through” regardless of what’s going on behind the scenes. Amongst the consequences are burnout, reduced productivity, absenteeism, and in the worst cases, breakdowns that affect employees and employers.

Key findings from several surveys highlight that:

• 77% of men have experienced symptoms of poor mental health at some point in their lives, anxiety, stress and depression being the leading challenges (Priori Group, 2021).
• 40% of men say they’ve never spoken to anyone about their mental health (Priori Group, 2021).
• 51% of men took time off work for mental health reasons in the past 3 months (Aviva, 2024)
• But just 15% of men disclosed the real reason for their absence to their employer (Aviva, 2024)
• 33% of men said that they never discuss mental health in the workplace (Aviva, 2024)
• 64% of men who have discussed their mental health with their employer said that they were helpful (Aviva, 2024)

Additionally according to Priori Group, 77% of all suicides are completed by men. This highlights the damage that can be caused when men feel like they can’t reach out for support.

Recognising these realities is the first step, taking action is the next.

What Mental Health Support Looks Like at Work

Promoting mental health in the workplace is a necessity for longterm performance, retention and morale. For men especially, support means creating an environment where they feel safe to be honest, human, and vulnerable.

Supporting men’s mental health in professional settings is not just a matter of goodwill, it’s imperative for businesses to thrive. Companies that invest in mental well-being see better employee retention, higher engagement, and a culture of trust. Here’s what effective support means in practice:

• Cultural Shift: Encouraging open discussions and de-stigmatising vulnerability.
• Accessible Resources: Access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), mental health training, and flexible leave.
• Work-Life Integration: Flexible hours and remote options to reduce strain and support family life.
• Empathetic Leadership: Managers trained to recognise signs of burnout and respond with care.
• Create a psychologically safe environment

According to Deloitte UK, poor mental health costs employers up to £53-£56 billion annually, with much of that linked to presenteeism and turnover (Deloitte, 2022). But companies that invest in mental health see returns of £5 for every £1 spent. Supporting men’s mental health is right and smart (Deloitte UK).

Savant Recruitment: More Than Just a Job Match

At Savant, we understand that meaningful employment is about fit, culture and support equally as it is about skills and experience.

Our team is trained to look beyond the resume, considering the whole person in every placement.

We’re proud to work with clients who take mental health seriously and create environments where employees, including men, can thrive both personally and professionally. Whether it’s partnering with businesses that offer strong mental health policies or guiding candidates toward companies that align with their values, we actively promote workplaces that prioritise well-being.

Creating a Healthier Future for Men at Work

This Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we encourage everyone — employers, employees, leaders, and colleagues — to reflect on how we can better support men in our workplaces. Check in with a teammate. Reassess your policies. Lead with empathy. A small step can make a big difference.

For our part, Savant Recruitment remains committed to being more than a recruitment agency, we are a partner in building healthier, more human workplaces. Because when people are supported, they thrive. And when they thrive, businesses grow stronger.

Let’s build a working world where no one feels they have to suffer in silence

If you're looking for a new role, a better fit, or a company that puts people first, Savant is here to help.

You’re Not Alone: Where to Find Support

At Savant Recruitment, we believe in being part of the conversation, but we’re not mental health professionals. 

If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to seek support from organisations.

Here are some trusted resources:

https://www.betterhelp.com/

https://www.thecalmzone.net/

https://www.mind.org.uk/

https://giveusashout.org/latest/seeking-mens-mental-health-support/

https://www.samaritans.org/

Refrences available here.