Men Die by Suicide at Disproportionate Rates, Experts Cite Stigma and Lack of Support

By: Mario Conde, Reporter.

Men continue to die by suicide at significantly higher rates than women in the United States, a public health crisis that mental health advocates link to stigma, limited emotional support systems, and underuse of mental health services.

June is observed in many communities as Men’s Mental Health Month, an awareness effort focused on reducing stigma, encouraging open conversation about mental health and increasing access to support services.

Advocates say the goal is to normalize mental health care as part of overall health and encourage earlier intervention before crises develop.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), men account for roughly 79% of suicide deaths in the United States and are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, despite similar levels of reported suicidal thoughts between genders.

Public health experts say the disparity highlights a gap between mental health need and treatment access, particularly among men who are less likely to seek professional help.

NAMI and federal health data indicate that more than 49,000 people died by suicide in the United States in 2023, with men representing the overwhelming majority of those deaths. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among younger Americans, particularly those ages 10 to 34, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

Mental health advocates say stigma remains one of the most persistent barriers to prevention.

“Men are often socialized to be self-reliant and to suppress emotional vulnerability, which can delay treatment until a crisis point,” NAMI states in its educational materials on men’s mental health.

Experts also point to structural and behavioral factors, including higher rates of substance use disorders, increased exposure to lethal means such as firearms, financial stress, and social isolation.

Research from NAMI and other public health organizations shows that men are significantly less likely than women to receive mental health treatment in a given year, even when experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety.

Community support is increasingly viewed as a key protective factor. Strong social networks — including family, friends, faith groups and civic organizations — have been shown to reduce isolation and improve early intervention outcomes.

However, experts say men are statistically less likely to maintain emotionally supportive peer relationships, increasing vulnerability during periods of crisis.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, 24/7 support for individuals experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.