Friday, June 19, 2026 Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health Matters June is Men’s Mental Health Month: a time to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and highlight the disproportionate impact mental health challenges have on men in Canada. Blogs Newsletters National June is Men’s Mental Health Month as well as Father’s Day: a meaningful reminder to recognize the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, caregivers, and father figures in our lives—not only for what they do for others, but for the support, care, and compassion they deserve themselves. At CLAC, we believe wellness extends beyond the workplace, but work is still a major part of our mental well-being. Mental health does not exist in isolation from where we work and live, and in many male-dominated industries, workplace culture and stigma can make it difficult to recognize or talk openly about mental health challenges. In Canada, an estimated 500,000 employees miss work every week due to mental health concerns, highlighting the real and measurable impact mental health has on workers, families, and communities. Mental health does not discriminate, but when it comes to how it impacts men, the statistics are sobering: Men have a suicide rate three times higher than women. Of the estimated 4,000 suicide deaths in Canada each year, nearly 75% are men. Men are significantly less likely to seek mental health support or therapy. These aren’t just statistics. They are fathers, brothers, sons, friends, coworkers, and neighbours. As Father’s Day approaches, check in with the men who often carry many responsibilities for their families, workplaces, and communities. A simple conversation can remind someone that they are not alone and that their well-being matters too. Too many men suffer in silence—not because they lack resilience, but because longstanding social expectations and workplace cultures have taught them that vulnerability is weakness and asking for help is failure. In many male-dominated environments, pressure to “push through” or stay silent can make it harder to recognize mental health struggles and access support early. But the truth is this: strength includes speaking up. Reaching out, having honest conversations, and seeking support are signs of courage—not weakness. Organizations like MenTELL.ca are helping change the narrative by creating safe, peer-led spaces for men to share their stories, connect through lived experiences, and support one another without judgment. What Meaningful Support Looks Like Start the conversation A simple “How are you really doing?” can make a meaningful difference. Listen openly and without judgment, and return to the conversation later. This shows genuine care and concern. Normalize therapy and support Mental health deserves the same care and attention as physical health. Seeking professional help, leaning on peer support, and having honest conversations with trusted people are all important steps toward well-being. No one should feel like they have to carry their struggles alone. Reaching out is a sign of courage, not weakness. Share resources Promote organizations, support groups, and mental health services that help men feel seen, heard, and supported. Encourage openness Taking care of your mental health is not a weakness—it’s a responsibility. Seeking support, checking in with yourself and others, and being honest about challenges are all signs of strength, self-awareness, and accountability. Creating space for openness helps build healthier individuals, families, workplaces, and communities. Support Is Available No one should have to struggle alone. At CLAC, we recognize that mental health, addiction, financial stress, and emotional well-being are deeply connected—and support should be accessible without judgment. CLAC offers a variety of wellness resources for members, including: Mental Health First Aid training Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) Mental health and substance use supports through myCLAC Addiction and recovery resources Crisis and suicide prevention resources CLAC is committed to helping members and their families navigate life’s challenges with dignity, compassion, and hope by providing practical, accessible support that meets people where they are—including those working shifts, remote jobs, or demanding schedules. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. For immediate mental health or suicide crisis support in Canada, call or text 988 anytime for free, 24/7 confidential assistance. Learn more about CLAC wellness supports at clac.ca/wellness. No One Should Struggle Alone This Men’s Mental Health Month, let’s do more than raise awareness—let’s check in with the men in our lives, create space for honest conversations, and encourage one another to seek support when it’s needed. Small actions, meaningful conversations, and early support can make a real difference. If you’re struggling, reach out. If someone you know is struggling, start the conversation. Because asking for help is not weakness—it’s strength. You might be interested in Supporting Indigenous Workers: Lessons from Radium North 19 Jun 2026 Graceview Enterprises Workers Ratify Contract Delivering Strong Wage and Pension Improvements 18 Jun 2026 Regional Hospice of Quinte Employees Secure Wage and Benefits Gains in First Collective Agreement 16 Jun 2026 Toronto Construction Workers Ratify First CLAC Collective Agreement with Clonard Group 15 Jun 2026