Men’s mental health matters because many men struggle in silence. Stigma, stress, and uncertainty about where to turn can lead to depression, addiction, violence, and/or suicide, impacting families, workplaces, and communities.

Publicly supporting men’s mental health helps them seek help, speak openly, and build healthier lives for themselves and those around them.

A Need for Collaboration: The Ed(men)ton Approach

When men’s mental health organizations work together, everyone benefits. Collaboration breaks down silos so groups can share knowledge, resources, and ideas instead of working alone. It builds stronger referral networks, reduces duplication, and ensures men can find the right kind of help faster.

That’s why the Ed(men)ton Project created the Men’s Mental Health Network. This citywide initiative strengthens men’s mental health through collaboration, connection, and community action. Its goals are to reduce stigma, improve access to support, and build lasting partnerships across sectors. In addition to a shared service directory and a local podcast series, the Men’s Mental Health Network is helping create a more connected and supportive environment for men in Edmonton.

Quick Stats

  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death among men under 50 in Canada.
  • Unaddressed depression, PTSD, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social phobia, and substance use disorders in men are associated with increased risk of intimate partner violence.
  • 67% of men reported never seeking out a professional mental health service.

Number of Suicide Mortality in Canada, by Sex (Statistics Canada).

How to Get Involved

Everyone has a role to play in improving men’s mental health. If you do work related to men’s mental health and well-being in any way, whether you provide direct support, run programs, conduct research, or work in a related area, we’d like to connect. The Ed(men)ton Project is working to bring people and organizations together, share information, and identify ways we can better support men across the city. Get in touch with the Ed(men)ton Project to learn more or share what you’re working on. Together, we can build stronger connections, make support easier to find, and create a more supportive environment for men in Edmonton.

Contact

  • Nikk Leavitt (nleavitt@terracentre.ca)
  • Cheyanne Welch (cwelch@terracentre.ca)