A moment to celebrate. A chance to change the conversation.
This Father’s Day, we celebrate the fathers, brothers, uncles, partners, friends, and mentors who shape our lives in meaningful ways.
But June is also Men’s Mental Health Month — and it’s a powerful reminder that too many men are still navigating mental health challenges without the support they need.
We know the numbers:
- 75% of suicide deaths in Canada are men
- Men are far less likely to ask for help
- Many report feeling isolated or emotionally unsupported — even while supporting others
This isn’t about blame. It’s about changing the conditions so men have the space, language, and tools to care for their mental wellbeing — just like anyone else.
So, this Father’s Day, here are 3 things we can all do to create space for men to thrive — in our families, workplaces, and communities.
1. Talk About Mental Health the Same Way You Talk About Physical Health
Mental health isn’t something men “deal with” only when it’s urgent. It’s part of everyday wellness — just like sleep, diet, and exercise.
Encourage regular mental check-ins. Ask how someone is doing — and mean it. Normalize therapy, coaching, journaling, or stress management.
And if you’re a man yourself, remember: checking in on your mental health doesn’t make you less capable — it makes you more equipped.
2. Create Environments Where Men Feel Safe to Be Honest
At home, at work, and in social spaces, the words we use matter. If we make jokes that minimize men’s feelings, or reward silence with praise like “he’s strong, he never complains,” we reinforce outdated expectations.
Instead, let’s create cultures where it’s safe to say:
- “I’ve been carrying a lot lately.”
- “I’m not sure what I need, but I don’t want to keep this in.”
- “Can we talk?”
This is what our Space We Make campaign is about — building environments that invite openness and support instead of pressure and pretense.
3. Share Real Tools and Support
Sometimes people want to help but don’t know where to start. Here’s how:
- Share free resources and crisis supports
- Bring in training like Mental Health First Aid or The Working Mind
- Model mental health practices in leadership, parenting, coaching, and day-to-day life
Supporting men’s mental health is more than a moment. It’s a mindset — one that says:
You don’t have to be “on” all the time.
You don’t have to carry it alone.
You don’t have to wait for a crisis to get support.
Let’s Make Space — Today and Every Day
This Father’s Day, let’s do more than recognize the men in our lives. Let’s create lasting space for their wellbeing. Because when we support men’s mental health, we don’t just help individuals — we strengthen families, workplaces, and entire communities.
If you’re looking for practical ways to take this further — whether as a leader, a coworker, a loved one, or for yourself — Opening Minds offers tools and training designed to build the kind of environments where mental health is understood, respected, and supported.
Let’s keep making space — together.
