You’re not on your own
Everyone feels stressed or low at times, but for many men, talking about how they feel isn’t easy. You might not want to worry anyone, or you might feel you should just get on with things. Many men would like to talk but don’t always have someone they can open up to.
Work, money or health pressures can all take their toll. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
This page looks at some of the challenges men face and where to 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:
- not having someone you can talk to
- worried that people will not take you seriously or mock you
- difficulties in intimate relationships and family dynamics
- money worries, job stress or feeling like you’re not where you thought you’d be
- 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
- living alone
- unhelpful stereotypes
- physical health issues; certain health issues are more common in males (e.g. cardiovascular disease) or male specific (testicular or prostate cancers).
Why men’s mental health matters
- 1 in 7 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.
- Almost twice as many men die from alcohol-specific causes as women.
- Many men’s mental health issues are not recognised until they are in crisis.
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, and it works.
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 and Let’s Unlock – their directory of activities
- 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.
Browse our directory for more men’s groups in 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
- Find creative and community groups near you
- Explore our self-help resources
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
- How stress affects your mental health
- Feeling low
- How to feel less lonely
- Support for new dads and partners
- Baby loss support – for dads and partners
- Get support with money and mental health
- Managing anger
Try our directory, contact your GP, or ask a social prescriber for help using MindWell.
National websites and information for men
Last updated: October 2025
Next review due: October 2026
References and bibliography available on request.