Summary: Men’s Health Network highlights how homicide contributes to the Lifespan Gender Gap—the nearly six-year difference in life expectancy between men and women. Each preventable death of a young man shortens the national average and represents lost potential, relationships, and community strength. In his article, Dr. Andrew Smiler examines data showing that men account for 80% of homicide victims, with most deaths occurring among young men under 35. Many are killed by people they know, often in moments of conflict or status-related tension. Smiler suggests that prevention begins with education—teaching boys and men how to resolve conflict, manage emotions, and de-escalate situations without violence. Men’s Health Network calls for greater empathy and early intervention to help young men live longer, healthier lives, reminding readers that every life saved helps close the gap and strengthen families and communities nationwide.Continue reading
Category: Education
Male Suicide and the Lifespan Gender Gap
October is National Depression and Mental Health Awareness and Screening Month, a time to bring attention to the silent crisis affecting men and boys. In this blog, Men’s Health Network highlights the deep connection between suicide and the Lifespan Gender Gap, reminding us that men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Contributor Dr. Andrew Smiler examines the data, cultural pressures, and life circumstances, such as loss of work or relationships, that contribute to male suicide rates. The piece urges readers to break the silence, check in with the men in their lives, and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Together, we can close the gap and remind the world that mental health is men’s health.Continue reading
Why I Care About Men’s Health… And Why You Should Too
In "Speaking Up for the Silent Majority," Shelby Leventhal, a college senior at the University of Kentucky, shares a powerful perspective on why women should care about men’s health. Drawing from her own experiences and observations, she explores the stigma that keeps many men from seeking care and urges women to play a more active role in encouraging the men in their lives to prioritize both physical and mental health. Through personal stories, cultural reflection, and a call to action, Shelby makes a compelling case for empathy, awareness, and support in the men’s health movement.Continue reading
Prostate Cancer Needs More Than a Global Initiative: Ground-Level Action Needed
Men’s Health Network responds to Global Action on Men’s Health’s new report on prostate cancer with a call for urgent, ground-level action. While supporting a WHO-led global initiative, MHN stresses that real impact requires community outreach, empathy-driven education, and trusted local engagement. Prostate cancer is rising fast, especially among underserved men, yet too many go without screening or support. This Men’s Health Month, MHN urges policymakers and the public to bridge the empathy gap and take action now. Learn more, get involved, and help bring life-saving care to where men live, work, play, and pray.Continue reading
International Men’s Health Week 2025: Lead with Empathy, Act with Purpose
As we celebrate International Men’s Health Week, it’s important to recognize where it all began. Men’s Health Network not only launched Men’s Health Week and Men’s Health Month—they laid the groundwork for a global movement. Their advocacy helped pass the original Congressional resolution in 1994, signed into law by President Bill Clinton, establishing Men’s Health Week as a national observance. From there, they created the infrastructure, messaging, and coalition-building that gave rise to what is now an international health campaign.Continue reading
More Than an Internship: Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Men’s Health
Men’s Health Network is more than a nonprofit—it’s a platform for learning, leadership, and lasting impact. Learn more about the Men's Health Network internship program and what the summer interns of 2025 are getting up to this year!Continue reading
The Role of Lifestyle Choices in Men’s Health: Nutrition, Exercise, & Beyond
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Start small. Pick one habit this week—meal prep, daily walks, earlier bedtime—and commit to it. Over time, these small wins compound into real, measurable health improvements. Yet many men are still unaware of just how impactful their habits can be. The good news? Even small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being. In this article, I’ll outline the evidence-based lifestyle pillars that support physical, mental, and metabolic health in men—and offer practical strategies to start improving them today.Continue reading
Expanding Healthy People 2030: A Community-Driven Approach to Men’s Health
Healthy People 2030's next iteration should incorporate male-focused community initiatives that foster adequate support for the health needs of men and boys. By working together—across public health sectors, education systems, workplaces, and community organizations—we can create an environment where all individuals, regardless of sex, have the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives. Read on for more information on how men and boys stand up against Social Determinants of Health as stated in existing policy.Continue reading
Closing the Gap: How You Can Make a Difference This Giving Tuesday and Beyond
We need your help this Holiday Season to make an impact with the health and well-being of men and boys everywhere. The Lifespan Gender Gap has widened to 6 years, with men dying way too early from preventable diseases. We need everyone's help to get life-saving education, resources, and more into the hearts of communities across America. Consider purchasing from the Men's Health Network store or by donating today. Continue reading
“Daddy Blackbird:” A Story of Resilience and Healing, Unpacking Suicide’s Impact on Men and Their Families
Daddy Blackbird: A Story of Resilience and Healing Unpacking Suicide’s Impact on Men and Their Families On October 10, 2024, World Mental Health Day, Daddy Blackbird by Caroline Roodhouse made its debut—a powerful release that offers a profound look into the unique challenges men face with mental health, particularly when struggles remain unspoken. This deeply...Continue reading
