From silence to solidarity: The changing story of men’s mental health in Ontario

For years, loneliness was dismissed as a personal issue, like a fleeting feeling that could be easily shrugged off. But today, it’s being recognized for what it truly is: a public health concern with deep social roots. And when it comes to men, it’s also about stigma, silence and a culture that discourages vulnerability. 

Across Canada, nearly 1 in 2 men say they feel socially isolated. Among men living alone, that number skyrockets to 73%. These numbers are warning signs of a broader crisis. 

Loneliness isn’t simply about being alone. It’s about being disconnected from peers, from purpose, and even from support. And for many men, the systems they were told to rely on (think of things like stoicism, strength, self-sufficiency) have failed them when it matters most. 

As the male mental health crisis deepens, loneliness is becoming both a symptom and a driver of despair. More men are reporting anxiety, depression and burnout, and many are doing it quietly. In Ontario, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among men aged 15–29. Across Canada, men account for 75% of all suicide deaths.  

This June 13, on Men’s Mental Health Awareness Day, CMHA Halton is joining a growing movement to change the conversation. 

We’re no longer asking men to “tough it out.” We’re creating spaces where they can speak up, seek help and be seen fully and without judgement. 

A snapshot of men’s mental health in 2025 

According to the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation’s most recent national survey, released May 29, 2025: 

• 23% of men are at risk of moderate to severe depression 

• 50% lack sufficient social support networks 

• And 67% have never sought professional mental health support 

The findings are particularly concerning for younger men (ages 19–29), racialized men, and men living alone. All of whom reported higher rates of social isolation and lower rates of accessing care. 

Men’s mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all 

Mental health concerns don’t impact all men equally. 

Indigenous men, particularly youth, are at significantly higher risk of suicide due to intergenerational trauma, systemic barriers to care and a lack of culturally safe services. 

• First Nations youth die by suicide at six times the rate of their non-Indigenous peers 

• Inuit youth die by suicide at 24 times the national average 
  (Source: CAMH, 2023) 

2SLGBTQIA+ men face similarly elevated risks. According to Statistics Canada: 

• Over 25% of 2SLGBTQ+ youth have seriously considered suicide 

• Rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use remain disproportionately high, especially among bisexual and trans men 

• Many report discrimination and fear of rejection as barriers to accessing care 

This means inclusive and identity-affirming supports aren’t optional; they’re actually essential. 

So when we talk about men’s mental health, we have to include trans men, racialized men, gay and bisexual men, Indigenous men — everyone. If we don’t, we’re leaving the most vulnerable behind. 

Loneliness: a growing epidemic 

Beyond the clinical symptoms, loneliness is emerging as one of the most harmful issues facing men today. 

A recent survey found that nearly 1 in 2 Canadian men feel socially isolated. Among those living alone, the number jumps to 73%. 

Isolation not only increases the risk of depression and suicide, but it also worsens physical health outcomes; conditions such as heart disease to cognitive decline. 

But connection is powerful. And that’s where local programs are stepping up. 

Taking the first step 

Mental health stigma still runs deep. But more and more, it’s being replaced by real conversation, compassion and care. 

CMHA branches across Ontario offer programs designed specifically for men, from walk-in counselling to culturally safe care and trauma-informed peer support. Help is available in-person, online, and even through text and chat services. 

It’s okay to ask for help. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling, the Canadian Mental Health Association Halton is here to support you.