Men’s Health Week

Men’s Health Week raises awareness of the unique mental health challenges faced by boys and men. It aims to reduce stigma around expressing emotions, encourages open conversations, and promotes healthy coping strategies. In schools, it’s an opportunity to teach all students that mental health affects everyone, and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

Activities:

• “It’s Okay to Talk” Wall: Students write messages to break the stigma (e.g., “Real men cry,” “Talking is brave”) on speech bubbles or hand shapes.

• Positive Male Role Models Gallery: Students research and present on male figures (past or present) who have spoken out about mental health (e.g. Prince Harry, Stormzy, Tyson Fury).

• Self-Care Bingo: Create a bingo card with healthy habits (e.g., drink water, talk to a friend, get fresh air) and challenge students to complete a row.

• “How I Cope” Mind Map: Students list things that help them manage stress and improve wellbeing.

• Create a Safe Space: Set up a calm room at lunch or break with journaling prompts, mindful colouring, quiet music, or positive books.

Whole-School Awareness Ideas:

• Assembly or Video Presentation: Cover topics like breaking stereotypes, emotions aren’t gendered, and where to get help. Include real-life examples of men who’ve overcome mental health challenges.

• Form Time Discussion Questions:

  • Why do some boys/men feel pressure to “tough it out”?

  • How can we support friends who are struggling?

  • What does healthy masculinity look like?

• Display Board: Include student art, quotes, key facts, and mental health resources tailored for boys and young men.

• Wear Blue Day: A visual way for the whole school to show solidarity.

• Staff Shoutouts: Highlight male staff sharing what they do for their own wellbeing.

Social Media Ideas:

• “It’s Okay to…” Graphic Series:
  “It’s okay to cry.”
  “It’s okay to ask for help.”
  “It’s okay to not be okay.”

• Student Voice Quotes: Anonymous messages about why mental health matters to boys and young men.

• Awareness Video or Reel: Showcase activities in school with supportive messages and affirmations.

• Myth vs Fact Posts: Tackle common myths like “Men don’t get depressed” or “Talking makes it worse.”

• Highlight Support Services: Share helplines, apps, or in-school resources specifically for boys/men.

• Hashtags to Use:
  

  • #MensMentalHealth

  • #ItsOkayToTalk

  • #BoysGetSadToo

  • #StrongNotSilent

  • #MentalHealthAwareness

  • #SupportEachOther