9 to 15 June 2025 is Men’s Health Week: This year’s theme is about taking a more strategic approach to men’s (and women’s) health. If you’re running an event for Men’s Health Week, don’t forget to let Men’s Health Unlocked know – email damian.dawtry@forumcentral.org.uk or tag @mhuleeds on X.
You’re not on your own
As a man, are you going through difficult times? Are you feeling low, stressed, or like things are getting too much? Many men want to talk but don’t have anyone to talk to. Some men need help simply talking about things in the first place.
This page shares some of the common challenges men face and where you can find support in Leeds that works for you.
What can affect men’s mental health?
There’s no one reason why things can feel hard. But some of the most common pressures that can affect men include:
- living alone
- money worries, job stress or feeling like you’re not where you thought you’d be
- not having someone you can talk to
- worried that people will not take you seriously or mock you
- being a dad and wanting to be more part of your child’s life
- dealing with racism, discrimination, or difficult experiences from the past
- struggling with drinking, narcotics, sleeping, or feeling numb
Why men’s mental health matters
- 1 in 8 men in England experience common mental health problems like anxiety and depression.
- Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK.
- Men are less likely to seek help, often waiting until they’re in crisis.
Talking isn’t a weakness – it’s a strength. Support is out there, and it works.
Support in Leeds for men
If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. There’s support in Leeds that understands men’s experiences.
Some services in Leeds are made especially for men, or work in ways that many men find helpful.
- Men’s Health Unlocked (MHU) – a network of support, activities, and community groups for men in Leeds.
- Andy’s Man Club – free talking groups for men, open every Monday evening across Leeds.
- Leeds Dads – hosts playgroups for dads and kids, organises social events and provides information and expert parenting support.
MHU have also produced a downloadable booklet for men, listing where to get support for a wide range of issues, including physical and mental health. You can also find out how to become a free MHU member to stay informed about the latest men’s events and activities in and around Leeds.
You can also speak to your GP or explore talking therapies in Leeds.
Getting active and staying connected
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t always mean talking – it might mean moving more, spending time outdoors or being part of something local.
- Find local wellbeing and activity groups
- Explore ways to be active for your mental health
- Browse our directory for men’s groups in Leeds
Worried about someone else?
If you’re worried about a friend, family member, colleague or neighbour, trust your instincts. You don’t have to fix everything – just listening can make a big difference.
Find out how to support someone else
Other topics you may find useful
- Read about how stress affects your mental health
- Read about feeling low
- Read about how to feel less lonely
- Get support with money and mental health
- Read about managing anger
Try our directory, contact your GP, or ask a social prescriber for help using MindWell.
Everyone deserves support that works for them. This page is just a starting point – we’re always working to make MindWell more inclusive. If you know of a men’s mental health project or have ideas about what we should include, send us feedback.