Most men in Canada face stress or isolation but avoid seeking professional help
Most Canadian men experiencing mental health challenges have never sought professional help, according to new national data from the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation (CMHF).
In April, a survey conducted with Intensions Consulting found that 67 percent of men in Canada reported never using any professional mental health service such as counselling or psychotherapy.
The survey of 2,000 men also revealed that 64 percent report moderate to high levels of stress, an increase of 4 percentage points from the previous year.
Similarly, 23 percent are at risk of moderate to severe depression, up 4 percentage points from 2024.
Kenton Boston, president and CEO of the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation (CMHF), said men’s mental health is declining at an alarming rate.
“Too many, especially younger men, are facing these struggles on their own,” he said.
He added that CMHF wants men to know they aren’t alone.
The CMHF’s national survey also shows that half of Canadian men are at risk of social isolation.
The isolation risk is particularly high among men who live alone (73 percent), men aged 19–29 (67 percent), and racialized men (59 percent). Social isolation is linked to elevated stress and depression risks.
Health Minister Josie Osborne said mental health matters for everyone, but many men still face stigma when discussing their struggles and emotions.
She said the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation is encouraging men to talk openly, seek help, and build stronger social connections.
In addition to survey data, CMHF estimates that approximately one million men in Canada experience major depression each year.
The Foundation identifies stigma, toxic masculinity, denial, loneliness, and lack of awareness as key reasons why men delay or avoid seeking help.
