Story perspectives

Study: Toxic Masculinity Hinders Men's Mental Health Support

11/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The University of Essex study finds toxic masculinity drives men's reluctance to express emotions, lowering their likelihood of seeking mental health support.
Toxic masculinity does not directly predict help-seeking, while emotional restriction serves as a stronger predictor.
The study involved 264 male participants in the United Kingdom.
Researchers recommend reframing emotional openness as a strength in mental health outreach to improve uptake, noting the study's cross-sectional design and cultural specificity.

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Story summary

The University of Essex study finds toxic masculinity drives men's reluctance to express emotions, lowering their likelihood of seeking mental health support.
Toxic masculinity does not directly predict help-seeking, while emotional restriction serves as a stronger predictor.
The study involved 264 male participants in the United Kingdom.
Researchers recommend reframing emotional openness as a strength in mental health outreach to improve uptake, noting the study's cross-sectional design and cultural specificity.