Suicidal thoughts and men
Causes, risks, and support
Suicide is the biggest cause of death in men under the age of 50 in the UK. There are different reasons why men often do not want to talk about their mental health or seek help for it. But if you are having suicidal thoughts there are things you can do, and there are people who care and want to help. If you are 18 or older and live in England, this information is for you.
Is the risk of suicide greater if you are a man?
Suicide is the biggest cause of death in men under the age of 50 in the UK.
About 3 out of 4 deaths from suicide each year are men.
Why do so many men die by suicide?
Men can die by suicide for many reasons. But it often happens when their mental health is really bad.
Men are less likely than women to talk about their mental health. One study found that only about 1 in 4 men who have mental health issues would talk to their friends about it.
The study also found that less than 1 in 2 men try to get professional help for their mental health.
The reasons why men often do not want to talk about their mental health, or seek help for it, can be complicated. But the reasons can include:
- Stigma about mental health
- Expectations that men should be ‘strong’ and not talk about their emotions
- Not wanting to trouble people
- Family or cultural pressures
- Social isolation
- A poor understanding of your emotions
For more information on how to deal with social isolation see our webpage on Social inclusion and mental illness - How can I become more connected.
Options for help
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© Rethink Mental Illness
First published: December 2025
Next review: December 2028, subject to any changes.
Version number 1