In 2021, a research conducted by men’s mental health charity, ‘Movember’ found that 60% of men don’t share how they are feeling with anyone. Prolonged suppressed feelings lead to isolation, distorted thinking, self-doubt, insecurity, low confidence, and anger issues. These may further result in anti-social or addictive behavior, spiraling life problems and broken relationships.

The statistics on men’s mental health shows that men suffer from mental health issues as much as women, and even more when compared to women for certain mental health conditions.

The theme for Men’s Mental Health month 2025 is ‘closing the empathy gap’.

Extensive industry research on Emotional Intelligence (EQ) has consistently shown that cultivating empathy and emotional awareness leads to improved individual well-being and more inclusive organizational cultures.

Is empathy just a professional requirement, or is it a deeper human necessity that applies to everyone, regardless of gender?

In interaction with men, their internal dilemma may sound like this:

“As a man, asking for help feels like cheating. Since childhood, I’ve been conditioned to ‘be strong’, ‘man up’, ‘never cry’, and ‘don’t complain’. I’m always expected to be stoic, unshakable, independent and figure everything out on my own”.

Imagine a world where men feel safe to say, “I’m not okay,” and someone truly listens. By replacing gender bias with compassion, we can create a space where men are free to express themselves without fear and judgment.

As the saying goes "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." Working together, supporting each other, having each other’s back is how we conquer life.

Empathy is a skill that goes beyond saying “you’ll figure it out”. It’s the ability to sit with someone in their discomfort, to listen without judgment, and to offer support without trying to fix or dismiss their feelings.

Empathy with self:

  • Knowing you are unable to manage on your own and having a support system for moral and emotional support can go a long way.
  • Showing considerations and kindness to self where needed.

Empathy with others:

  • The key to empathy is active listening

Active listening is being in the moment with the person and letting them know you’re understanding the place where their thoughts and emotions are coming from through para phrasing as needed during conversation.

  • Be curious over judgement

Judgement sounds like: “Oh, that’s easy”, “that is such a small issue”, “there’s nothing to be worried about”.

Curiosity sounds like: “what makes you feel stuck?”, “why is this affecting you deeply?”, “how can I support you through this?’. Remember, small gestures and acts of kindness do miracles.

  • Be honest

If you’re unable to relate with their experience and pain, politely say “I may not be getting the exact depth of the situation, but I understand it is hurting you, please tell me what I can exactly do to make it better for you”.

While Practice is the Key, Breaking biased societal norm is the Mindset Shift!


If you or someone you know are struggling with mental health please feel free to schedule a chat with our in-house counsellors Ms. Harshali Kotekar and Ms. Glenda D’Silva. Rest assured that all information shared during sessions remain strictly confidential.