June 10, 2025 • 8 mins
We delve into the often unspoken layers of men's mental health, exploring how societal expectations around masculinity create barriers to seeking help and expressing vulnerability. Focusing on both relationships and broader social contexts, we address the unique challenges Black men face and outline pathways toward breaking stigma and promoting wellbeing.
• Men face unique pressures to be "the strong one" in relationships, often suppressing emotions and creating emotional distance
• Suicide rates among men are higher because they're less likely than women to seek mental health support
• Education and awareness in schools and workplaces are key to changing perceptions about men's mental health
• Black men navigate additional challenges including systemic racism, economic barriers, and cultural expectations around masculinity
• Creating safe spaces for emotional expression without judgment is crucial for nurturing mental health in relationships
• Community-based interventions like mentorship programs and support groups provide valuable culturally-relevant resources
• Representation matters—seeing Black mental health professionals and leaders speak openly encourages others to do the same
If you found this episode helpful, share it with someone who might benefit from it. To hear our full feature podcast expanding the conversation about men's mental health from a Black men's perspective, visit greatdayradio.com.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
You are listening to the People.
Speaker 2 (00:01):
Station on GreatDayRadiocom.
Speaker 1 (00:05):
Welcome to Minds Unmasked, the podcast where we
delve into the deep and oftenunspoken layers of mental health
.
So I'm DJ Mikey D, your host,and joining me is the
ever-insightful DJ DeMarie.
For this podcast, we'reexploring a topic that's crucial
, yet often brushed under thecarpet men's mental health and
relationships, and in society atlarge.
Thanks, mikey.
Speaker 2 (00:25):
It's a topic that's incredibly important, yet it
lacks the spotlight it deserves.
While in June is a time we aresupposed to recognize men's
mental health, we should berecognizing this every day.
Men face unique challenges whenit comes to mental health,
largely due to societalexpectations and stereotypes
around masculinity.
Speaker 1 (00:45):
Absolutely.
Let's kick things off bytalking about men's mental
health and relationships.
It's common for men to feelpressured to be the strong one,
which can lead to suppressingemotions.
Djd, what are your thoughts onhow this impacts relationships?
Speaker 2 (00:58):
This expectation can cause significant stress and
hinder open communication.
When men feel unable to expressvulnerability, it can create
emotional distance.
Healthy relationships thrive oncommunication and emotional
support, but societal normsoften discourage men from
showing vulnerability.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
That is a great point .
Building a supportiveenvironment in relationships can
make a big difference.
Encouraging partners to expresstheir feelings and normalizing
emotional discussions can helpbreak down these barriers.
Speaker 2 (01:27):
Now shifting the lens to society at large.
The stigma around men seekinghelp for mental health issues
continues to be prevalent.
Mikey, what do you think aresome effective ways society can
change these perceptions?
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Great question.
Education and awareness are key.
Schools and workplaces shouldintegrate mental health
discussions into their culture.
Campaigns led by public figureswho share their mental health
journeys can also help tostigmatize the issue.
The only thing to point out isthat men are less likely than
women to seek help than men.
Therefore, suicide amongst menare far greater.
That is why education andunderstanding is important.
Speaker 2 (02:04):
Indeed, when influential men talk about their
struggles, it sends a powerfulmessage.
It's about normalizing theconversation and showing that
asking for help is a sign ofstrength.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
Okay, as we wrap up, let's talk solutions.
Djd how can individuals supportthe men in their lives
struggling with mental healthissues?
Speaker 2 (02:22):
Listening without judgment is crucial.
Encouraging them to seekprofessional help and letting
them know it's okay to talkabout their feelings can make a
significant impact.
Sometimes, just knowing they'renot alone can be a relief.
That's all the time we have forthis podcast.
(02:45):
To hear the full discussion onthis topic, please visit
greatdayradiocom to learn more.
Remember it's okay not to beokay.
Continued discussion andsupport are essential steps in
the journey towards bettermental health for everyone.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
Thanks for joining us on Minds Unmasked.
If you found this episodehelpful, share it with someone
who might benefit from it.
If you want to hear the fullfeature podcast, please visit
greatdayradiocom.
There we expand theconversation as we discuss men's
mental health from black men'sperspective.
Until next time, take care ofyourselves and each other, Much
love.
If you are interested inadvertising your product,
(03:22):
service or social media on ourwebsite or reels are interested
in advertising your product,service or social media on our
website or reels, visitgreatdayradiocom.
Click on advertising to learnmore.
Hello and welcome back.
This is part two of the Men'sMental Health Podcast, where we
explore pressing issuesaffecting the black community.
I'm DJ Mikey D.
In recent years, discussionsabout mental health have gained
prominence, breaking the stigmasurrounding the topic.
(03:42):
However, the mental health ofBlack men, particularly in the
context of relationships andsocietal roles, remains an area
in need of nuanced understandingand dedicated attention.
The unique challenges faced byBlack men in terms of their
mental well-being are deeplyintertwined with historical,
cultural and socioeconomicfactors.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
Hello everyone, this is DJ DeMarie and we're diving
into a vital topic.
Hello everyone, this is DJDeMarie and we're diving into a
vital topic black men's mentalhealth, especially in the
context of relationships andsociety at large.
Speaker 1 (04:10):
It's a conversation that's finally getting the
attention it deserves, butthere's still so much work to do
, so let's unpack what mentalhealth really means for black
men and why it's such a criticalissue.
Speaker 2 (04:22):
To start, we need to understand the environment black
men are navigating a criticalissue.
To start, we need to understandthe environment Black men are
navigating.
Systemic racism, economicchallenges and exposure to
violence can all take a toll onmental health.
Speaker 1 (04:31):
Right, and often there's this cultural
expectation around masculinityand being stoic, self-reliant,
never showing vulnerability,which can make it harder for
Black men to seek help when theyneed it.
Speaker 2 (04:41):
That stigma around mental health is a big barrier.
Many believe admitting tostruggles shows weakness, and so
they hide their pain, which canlead to serious issues like
depression or anxiety goinguntreated.
Speaker 1 (04:54):
Right, and when you add an historical mistrust of
mental health services due to along history of mistreatment,
it's a recipe for silence andsuffering.
Speaker 2 (05:01):
In relationships, black men may face additional
pressures.
The dynamics withinpartnerships can be influenced
by external societal stressors.
For instance, financialstability, which can be harder
to achieve due to systemicinequalities, can strain
relationships.
Moreover, traditionalmasculinity norms may hinder
(05:21):
open communication aboutemotional needs or mental health
struggles, making it difficultfor partners to support each
other effectively.
The role of intersectionalityhere is vital.
Identity factors such as class,sexuality and community also
affect how mental health isexperienced and addressed Within
relationships.
The need for support andunderstanding from partners is
(05:44):
crucial.
Building a safe space wherevulnerabilities can be shared
without judgment is essentialfor nurturing mental health.
Speaker 1 (05:52):
Absolutely, for example, trying to be the
provider.
It can be overwhelming andisolating, especially when
systemic barriers make financialstability difficult.
And emotional expression.
That's often discouraged.
Women are told they shouldhandle things on their own.
But healthy relationshipsthrive on communication and
emotional expression.
That's often discouraged.
Women are told they shouldhandle things on their own, but
healthy relationships thrive oncommunication and emotional
honesty.
Speaker 2 (06:09):
That's why creating safe spaces where Black men can
share their feelings withoutjudgment is crucial, both with
their partners and in communitysettings Also, partners play a
vital role.
Supporting a loved one's mentalhealth journey can strengthen
the bond and help break downstereotypes around masculinity.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
So what can be done?
First, we need to normalizediscussions around mental health
within the Black community.
Addressing the mental health ofBlack men requires a
multi-faceted approach.
Community-based interventionsthat are culturally relevant
have shown promise.
Programs focusing on mentorship, peer support groups and
(06:51):
educational workshops canprovide valuable resources and
create environments where Blackmen feel understood and
supported.
Speaker 2 (06:54):
Exactly Representation matters.
When we see Black mental healthprofessionals, mentors and
leaders speaking openly, itencourages others to do the same
.
I agree, mikey.
Community programs, peersupport groups and culturally
sensitive therapy services canmake a huge difference.
Speaker 1 (07:10):
Right.
Education is key.
The more people understandmental health as health and no
different from physical health,the more stigma can be
dismantled.
It's about creatingenvironments that affirm and
support Black men and theirmental wellness, both in
relationships and society.
Speaker 2 (07:24):
Thanks for tuning in to this discussion.
The mental health of black menremains an often overlooked
topic that demands moreattention in both individual and
community context.
By fostering open dialogues,reducing stigmas and developing
supportive networks, society cancreate an environment where
black men not only survive butthrive, both in their
(07:46):
relationships and broadersocietal roles.
With ongoing commitment andunderstanding, we can work
toward a future where mentalwell-being is prioritized for
everyone, regardless of theirracial or cultural background.
Remember, mental health is ajourney and no one should have
to walk it alone.
Speaker 1 (08:05):
All right.
I hope this gives you a betterunderstanding about mental
health for men, especiallywithin the Black community.
If you or someone you knowneeds help, please reach out.
As an Army veteran, a man whosuffers with PTSD, and Black man
in this society, I understand.
Just know you're not alone andsupport is available.
Stay tuned for our next episodewhere we'll dive into community
activism and mental healthadvocacy.
(08:26):
If you are interested inadvertising on any of our reels
website or interview, pleasevisit greatdayradiocom.
Click on advertising for moreinformation.
Until then, take care ofyourselves and each other.
Much love to you all.
You are listening to the bestpodcast from the USA to the UK
on greatdayradiocom.
You are listening to the People.
Speaker 2 (00:01):
Station on GreatDayRadiocom.
Speaker 1 (00:05):
Welcome to Minds Unmasked, the podcast where we
delve into the deep and oftenunspoken layers of mental health
.
So I'm DJ Mikey D, your host,and joining me is the
ever-insightful DJ DeMarie.
For this podcast, we'reexploring a topic that's crucial
, yet often brushed under thecarpet men's mental health and
relationships, and in society atlarge.
Thanks, mikey.
Speaker 2 (00:25):
It's a topic that's incredibly important, yet it
lacks the spotlight it deserves.
While in June is a time we aresupposed to recognize men's
mental health, we should berecognizing this every day.
Men face unique challenges whenit comes to mental health,
largely due to societalexpectations and stereotypes
around masculinity.
Speaker 1 (00:45):
Absolutely.
Let's kick things off bytalking about men's mental
health and relationships.
It's common for men to feelpressured to be the strong one,
which can lead to suppressingemotions.
Djd, what are your thoughts onhow this impacts relationships?
Speaker 2 (00:58):
This expectation can cause significant stress and
hinder open communication.
When men feel unable to expressvulnerability, it can create
emotional distance.
Healthy relationships thrive oncommunication and emotional
support, but societal normsoften discourage men from
showing vulnerability.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
That is a great point .
Building a supportiveenvironment in relationships can
make a big difference.
Encouraging partners to expresstheir feelings and normalizing
emotional discussions can helpbreak down these barriers.
Speaker 2 (01:27):
Now shifting the lens to society at large.
The stigma around men seekinghelp for mental health issues
continues to be prevalent.
Mikey, what do you think aresome effective ways society can
change these perceptions?
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Great question.
Education and awareness are key.
Schools and workplaces shouldintegrate mental health
discussions into their culture.
Campaigns led by public figureswho share their mental health
journeys can also help tostigmatize the issue.
The only thing to point out isthat men are less likely than
women to seek help than men.
Therefore, suicide amongst menare far greater.
That is why education andunderstanding is important.
Speaker 2 (02:04):
Indeed, when influential men talk about their
struggles, it sends a powerfulmessage.
It's about normalizing theconversation and showing that
asking for help is a sign ofstrength.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
Okay, as we wrap up, let's talk solutions.
Djd how can individuals supportthe men in their lives
struggling with mental healthissues?
Speaker 2 (02:22):
Listening without judgment is crucial.
Encouraging them to seekprofessional help and letting
them know it's okay to talkabout their feelings can make a
significant impact.
Sometimes, just knowing they'renot alone can be a relief.
That's all the time we have forthis podcast.
(02:45):
To hear the full discussion onthis topic, please visit
greatdayradiocom to learn more.
Remember it's okay not to beokay.
Continued discussion andsupport are essential steps in
the journey towards bettermental health for everyone.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
Thanks for joining us on Minds Unmasked.
If you found this episodehelpful, share it with someone
who might benefit from it.
If you want to hear the fullfeature podcast, please visit
greatdayradiocom.
There we expand theconversation as we discuss men's
mental health from black men'sperspective.
Until next time, take care ofyourselves and each other, Much
love.
If you are interested inadvertising your product,
(03:22):
service or social media on ourwebsite or reels are interested
in advertising your product,service or social media on our
website or reels, visitgreatdayradiocom.
Click on advertising to learnmore.
Hello and welcome back.
This is part two of the Men'sMental Health Podcast, where we
explore pressing issuesaffecting the black community.
I'm DJ Mikey D.
In recent years, discussionsabout mental health have gained
prominence, breaking the stigmasurrounding the topic.
(03:42):
However, the mental health ofBlack men, particularly in the
context of relationships andsocietal roles, remains an area
in need of nuanced understandingand dedicated attention.
The unique challenges faced byBlack men in terms of their
mental well-being are deeplyintertwined with historical,
cultural and socioeconomicfactors.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
Hello everyone, this is DJ DeMarie and we're diving
into a vital topic.
Hello everyone, this is DJDeMarie and we're diving into a
vital topic black men's mentalhealth, especially in the
context of relationships andsociety at large.
Speaker 1 (04:10):
It's a conversation that's finally getting the
attention it deserves, butthere's still so much work to do
, so let's unpack what mentalhealth really means for black
men and why it's such a criticalissue.
Speaker 2 (04:22):
To start, we need to understand the environment black
men are navigating a criticalissue.
To start, we need to understandthe environment Black men are
navigating.
Systemic racism, economicchallenges and exposure to
violence can all take a toll onmental health.
Speaker 1 (04:31):
Right, and often there's this cultural
expectation around masculinityand being stoic, self-reliant,
never showing vulnerability,which can make it harder for
Black men to seek help when theyneed it.
Speaker 2 (04:41):
That stigma around mental health is a big barrier.
Many believe admitting tostruggles shows weakness, and so
they hide their pain, which canlead to serious issues like
depression or anxiety goinguntreated.
Speaker 1 (04:54):
Right, and when you add an historical mistrust of
mental health services due to along history of mistreatment,
it's a recipe for silence andsuffering.
Speaker 2 (05:01):
In relationships, black men may face additional
pressures.
The dynamics withinpartnerships can be influenced
by external societal stressors.
For instance, financialstability, which can be harder
to achieve due to systemicinequalities, can strain
relationships.
Moreover, traditionalmasculinity norms may hinder
(05:21):
open communication aboutemotional needs or mental health
struggles, making it difficultfor partners to support each
other effectively.
The role of intersectionalityhere is vital.
Identity factors such as class,sexuality and community also
affect how mental health isexperienced and addressed Within
relationships.
The need for support andunderstanding from partners is
(05:44):
crucial.
Building a safe space wherevulnerabilities can be shared
without judgment is essentialfor nurturing mental health.
Speaker 1 (05:52):
Absolutely, for example, trying to be the
provider.
It can be overwhelming andisolating, especially when
systemic barriers make financialstability difficult.
And emotional expression.
That's often discouraged.
Women are told they shouldhandle things on their own.
But healthy relationshipsthrive on communication and
emotional expression.
That's often discouraged.
Women are told they shouldhandle things on their own, but
healthy relationships thrive oncommunication and emotional
honesty.
Speaker 2 (06:09):
That's why creating safe spaces where Black men can
share their feelings withoutjudgment is crucial, both with
their partners and in communitysettings Also, partners play a
vital role.
Supporting a loved one's mentalhealth journey can strengthen
the bond and help break downstereotypes around masculinity.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
So what can be done?
First, we need to normalizediscussions around mental health
within the Black community.
Addressing the mental health ofBlack men requires a
multi-faceted approach.
Community-based interventionsthat are culturally relevant
have shown promise.
Programs focusing on mentorship, peer support groups and
(06:51):
educational workshops canprovide valuable resources and
create environments where Blackmen feel understood and
supported.
Speaker 2 (06:54):
Exactly Representation matters.
When we see Black mental healthprofessionals, mentors and
leaders speaking openly, itencourages others to do the same
.
I agree, mikey.
Community programs, peersupport groups and culturally
sensitive therapy services canmake a huge difference.
Speaker 1 (07:10):
Right.
Education is key.
The more people understandmental health as health and no
different from physical health,the more stigma can be
dismantled.
It's about creatingenvironments that affirm and
support Black men and theirmental wellness, both in
relationships and society.
Speaker 2 (07:24):
Thanks for tuning in to this discussion.
The mental health of black menremains an often overlooked
topic that demands moreattention in both individual and
community context.
By fostering open dialogues,reducing stigmas and developing
supportive networks, society cancreate an environment where
black men not only survive butthrive, both in their
(07:46):
relationships and broadersocietal roles.
With ongoing commitment andunderstanding, we can work
toward a future where mentalwell-being is prioritized for
everyone, regardless of theirracial or cultural background.
Remember, mental health is ajourney and no one should have
to walk it alone.
Speaker 1 (08:05):
All right.
I hope this gives you a betterunderstanding about mental
health for men, especiallywithin the Black community.
If you or someone you knowneeds help, please reach out.
As an Army veteran, a man whosuffers with PTSD, and Black man
in this society, I understand.
Just know you're not alone andsupport is available.
Stay tuned for our next episodewhere we'll dive into community
activism and mental healthadvocacy.
(08:26):
If you are interested inadvertising on any of our reels
website or interview, pleasevisit greatdayradiocom.
Click on advertising for moreinformation.
Until then, take care ofyourselves and each other.
Much love to you all.
You are listening to the bestpodcast from the USA to the UK
on greatdayradiocom.
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