Man Up No More—Rethinking Men’s Mental Health in Society and Workplaces

How often do we hear men openly discussing their mental health struggles? Probably not as frequently as we should. The recent tragedy of Subhash Atul, a Bengaluru-based executive, serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the silent battles many men face. Before taking his life, Atul left behind a note accusing his estranged wife and in-laws of relentless harassment during a legal dispute. This shocking incident has sparked outrage and brought attention to the immense pressures men endure—often with little to no support.

Men’s rights activists, such as Deepika Narayan Bhardwaj, have described the situation as “legal terrorism,” emphasizing how false allegations and prolonged legal battles can drive men to despair. This case isn’t just about one individual; it’s a wake-up call to address the broader crisis of men’s mental health, both at home and in the workplace.

Despite societal expectations that paint men as stoic and unyielding, this “man up” mentality often prevents them from seeking the help they need. Whether navigating personal challenges or facing workplace stress, it’s clear that men’s mental health deserves far more attention and proactive solutions than it currently receives.

The Role of Mental Health in the Workplace

Workplaces are where many individuals spend a significant portion of their lives, making them a critical environment for addressing mental health. Yet, discussions around mental health in the workplace often fail to include the unique challenges faced by men. Many men hesitate to speak up about stress, anxiety, or burnout due to fears of being perceived as weak or less capable. This silence can exacerbate issues, leading to decreased productivity, strained relationships, and, in severe cases, mental health crises.

Organizations can play a pivotal role in supporting employee mental health by fostering a culture of openness and support. Here are some actionable steps:

Promote Awareness and Education : Educate employees about the importance of mental health with targeted initiatives that normalize seeking help, especially for men.

Provide Access to Resources : Offer confidential counselling services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and workshops that address stress management and emotional resilience.

Encourage Open Conversations : Train managers to recognize signs of mental health struggles and encourage team members to discuss challenges without fear of judgment.

Flexible Work Policies : Provide options like flexible schedules or mental health days to help employees manage work-life balance more effectively.

Professional Mental Health Support : Platforms like Samvedna Care offer specialized programs to enhance mental health in workplaces. 

Our services like Self-Care Programs, Wellness Coaching Programs, Thematic group workshops, Counselling Helpline/ Chat Services, Custom Podcast Solutions, and Custom assessments for mental well-being are critical in improving mental health in the workplace and ensuring employees have access to the resources they need. 

Improving Mental Health Beyond the Workplace

While workplace initiatives are vital, men’s mental health must also be supported in broader contexts:

Breaking Societal Stigma : Men are often conditioned to suppress emotions. Encouraging open dialogue within families and communities can help dismantle this harmful stereotype.

Support Networks : Creating safe spaces for men to share their experiences, whether through peer support groups or online forums, can provide a much-needed outlet.

Addressing Legal and Social Pressures : Cases like Subhash Atul highlight the need for legal reforms and unbiased investigations to prevent the misuse of laws and reduce undue stress on individuals.

A Shared Responsibility

The tragedy in Bangalore is a stark reminder that mental health struggles can have devastating consequences if left unaddressed. Organizations, families, and society at large must work together to create an environment where men feel supported and empowered to seek help. By prioritizing mental health in the workplace and beyond, we can ensure that no one has to suffer in silence.
Let’s commit to breaking the stigma and fostering a culture where mental health is treated with the importance it deserves. Contact Samvedna Care now!