International Men’s Day 2025 is being observed worldwide on 19 November, bringing renewed focus to men’s health, emotional well-being, positive masculinity and the crucial roles that men play in families, communities and workplaces. While public conversations in India are growing more inclusive, experts say men’s issues—especially mental health and emotional vulnerability—remain under-discussed.
This year’s theme, “Strength Through Compassion: Supporting Men’s Well-Being Together”, underscores the importance of empathy, community support and breaking stigma around men seeking help.
Why Men’s Day Matters More Than Ever in India
India’s family structure, societal expectations and cultural norms create an environment where men often feel obligated to remain emotionally strong, financially stable and socially responsible at all times — even when under pressure.
Studies from the International Men’s Day Global Organisation highlight that globally:
- Men account for three out of four suicides
- Men die earlier due to late health screening
- Depression among men is often hidden
- Workplace burnout is disproportionately high among men
Source: https://internationalmensday.com/
The day aims to dismantle these stereotypes and build healthier emotional environments for men across all age groups.
Men’s Mental Health: A Silent Crisis in India
According to the National Mental Health Survey of India, men are less likely than women to seek psychological help due to stigma and fear of appearing “weak”.
Key concerns in India include:
- Work stress
- Family responsibilities
- Financial pressure
- Loneliness (especially among elder men)
- Suppressed emotions due to societal expectations
Psychologists emphasise that emotional openness is not a sign of weakness but a step toward self-care and resilience.
Source: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response
Theme of International Men’s Day 2025
“Strength Through Compassion: Supporting Men’s Well-Being Together”
The theme is built around six core pillars:
- Promoting positive male role models
- Improving men’s health and life expectancy
- Encouraging emotional vulnerability
- Strengthening gender equality and cooperation
- Supporting fathers and family roles
- Reducing violence and promoting community safety
The day is not meant to overshadow women’s issues but to create balance by acknowledging men’s challenges with equal sensitivity.
History of International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day was founded in 1999 by Dr Jerome Teelucksingh, a professor from Trinidad & Tobago, who wanted to highlight positive contributions of men and recognise the struggles men silently endure.
Today, more than 80 countries observe the day with campaigns, awareness events and educational programmes.
Source: https://www.un.org/en/observances
How India Is Observing International Men’s Day 2025
Across India, the day is being marked with activities including:
✔ Health Screening Camps
Hospitals and NGOs offer subsidised check-ups for:
- Blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Cardiac risks
- Hormonal health
- Mental health counselling
✔ Corporate Wellness Programs
Companies are conducting:
- Stress-management workshops
- Mental-health webinars
- Motivational talks
- Employee support sessions
✔ College Awareness Events
Educational institutions are highlighting:
- Cyberbullying
- Exam stress
- Toxic masculinity
- Peer pressure
- Self-esteem and self-expression
Why Emotional Health for Men Must Be Prioritized
Several mental health organisations report that Indian men commonly avoid expressing:
- Sadness
- Fear
- Stress
- Relationship concerns
- Workplace harassment
- Personal insecurities
This often leads to:
- Depression
- Alcohol dependency
- Social withdrawal
- Anger issues
- Physical health decline
Doctors stress that emotional suppression is a major reason for high suicide rates among men.
Source: https://www.nimhans.ac.in/
Quotes for Social Sharing
Here are impactful quotes you may use:
- “A strong man is not one who hides pain, but one who confronts it.”
- “Men’s health matters. Men’s emotions matter. Men matter.”
- “Empathy heals. Strength grows where compassion leads.”
- “Let men express, heal, and grow — without judgement.”
Conclusion
International Men’s Day 2025 is a reminder that men’s issues deserve equal importance in conversations surrounding health, emotional wellbeing and social harmony. In a rapidly changing India, this day provides an essential platform to advocate for healthier masculinity, stronger communities and emotionally aware families.
By encouraging openness, compassion and dialogue, the 2025 theme — “Strength Through Compassion” — inspires society to create safe spaces where men can express, heal and thrive without fear of criticism.
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