Skip to main content
About IDPH

Men's Mental Health

Resources

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, 988 provides a 24/7 connection to confidential support. There is hope. You are not alone. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org, 988 connects you with a trained crisis counselor who can help.

Free and Anonymous Self-Screening Tools for Depression

Man Therapy: Men's Mental Health Assessment
Heads Up Guys: Depression Screening Tool
Mental Health America: Depression Test

The mental health of men in both Illinois and the United States is considered to be in a concerning and worsening state, with suicide, substance abuse/overdose, incarceration, and homelessness all disproportionately affecting men. It is important to recognize signs of depression and suicidal behaviors while you can, and know the resources available to help.

Learn More About the Statistics Related to Men’s Mental Health

Signs/Symptoms to be aware of include:

Communication

Be aware of direct and indirect messaging, such as expressing hopelessness or thoughts of giving up, commenting on plans for suicide, vocalizing concerns that they are a burden or will not be a burden any longer, and making contingent comments (“if this doesn’t happen” or “if my spouse leaves me”).

Mood

Increased anger and hostility, reckless behavior, isolation, and extreme mood swings.

Acts

Giving away personal belongings of value, increased use of alcohol or drugs, excessive or very little sleep, abrupt affiliation or disaffiliation with religion.

Through advocacy, support, and targeted programming, especially for the most at-risk groups, including men, those over 45 years old, veterans, and the LGBTQ+ community, IDPH is working to reduce the stress and suffering caused by the variety of mental health conditions. For more information on state initiatives, explore the suicide prevention resources and publications available through the IDPH Suicide Prevention Program.

Learn more about the Suicide Prevention Program

If mental health or substance abuse struggles impact you or someone you know, consider visiting the following resources:

Resources