More Than Stress: Recognising and Managing Anxiety in Men.

Anxiety isn’t just a passing worry or a bit of stress before a big event. For many men, it’s a constant presence—one that can be hard to name, let alone talk about. Despite growing awareness around mental health, men’s anxiety often flies under the radar, dismissed as stress or pressure rather than a legitimate concern. In this episode of The Meaning of Men Dr. Krista Fischer, research fellow at Movember, explains why anxiety in men is often overlooked, how societal expectations shape men’s mental health, and the steps we can take to create better support systems.

1. Anxiety in Men Often Goes Unnoticed

One of the biggest takeaways from my chat with Dr. Fischer was how anxiety in men is often overlooked. Unlike depression in men, which has (rightly) gained more recognition in recent years, anxiety is still not widely discussed. Why? For one, men tend to experience and express anxiety differently than women. Instead of verbalising their struggles, many men exhibit physical symptoms—racing heart, nausea, restlessness, or even chronic pain. They might not even recognise that what they’re feeling is anxiety. Instead, they might just say they’re “stressed” or “burnt out.” This lack of recognition means many men go years without seeking help, allowing anxiety to spiral into more serious mental health conditions. We need to change the conversation and help men recognise the signs of male depression and anxiety before it gets to that point.

2. Traditional Masculinity and Anxiety: A Complicated Relationship

Society still holds onto the outdated idea that men should be strong, stoic, and unemotional. This expectation creates a dangerous cycle. Many men feel pressure to suppress their feelings, which only worsens their anxiety. And if they do acknowledge their struggles? They might feel like they’re failing at being “a real man.” Dr. Fischer discussed the concept of plural masculinities, which acknowledges that there’s no single way to be a man. The more we embrace different expressions of masculinity—including vulnerability—the healthier our mental outlook becomes. The key message? Seeking help or talking about your anxiety isn’t a weakness. It’s actually one of the strongest things a man can do.

3. Anxiety as a Unique Risk Factor for Suicide in Men

A sobering reality is that anxiety isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be deadly. Research shows that anxiety disorders are an independent risk factor for suicide in men. Many people assume that depression is the primary cause, but anxiety can push men into crisis, especially when they feel there’s no way out. The overwhelming sense of fear, worry, or even panic can lead to desperate decisions. That’s why it’s crucial to spot the signs early and take them seriously. If someone you know is struggling, check in. Let them know they don’t have to handle it alone. Breaking this stigma could quite literally save lives.

4. Practical Steps to Managing Anxiety

The good news? There are things men can do every day to manage anxiety before it takes over. Dr. Fischer highlighted some simple but powerful strategies that have helped the men in her research. Regular exercise, quality sleep, and a healthy diet all play a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Journaling, meditation, and even something as simple as taking a walk outside can also be beneficial. But one of the most overlooked tools? Social connection. Whether it’s gaming with friends, playing a sport, or just grabbing a coffee, spending time with others helps to break the cycle of anxious thoughts. And remember, managing anxiety isn’t about “curing” it—it’s about finding ways to keep it in check.

5. How Friends and Family Can Help

If you have a friend, partner, or family member struggling with anxiety, knowing how to help can feel overwhelming. Dr. Fischer’s research showed that many men first open up to the women in their lives—mothers, sisters, or female partners—before talking to male friends. While this is great, it also means we need to create more spaces where men feel comfortable being vulnerable with each other. If you’re supporting someone with anxiety, the best thing you can do is listen. You don’t need to fix everything—just being there can make a huge difference. And for those who struggle to talk face-to-face, shoulder-to-shoulder activities (like walking or driving) can create a more comfortable setting for honest conversations.

In Summary

Dr. Krista Fischer’s research sheds light on the hidden struggles men face with anxiety and the urgent need for better recognition and support. She emphasizes that anxiety in men often manifests in physical symptoms, making it harder to diagnose and address. Traditional masculine expectations can further isolate men, preventing them from seeking help. However, her insights also highlight hopeful solutions—encouraging men to find strength in vulnerability, redefining masculinity to include openness, and fostering spaces where honest conversations can thrive. By applying these learnings, we can start to reshape how society views men’s mental health and ensure that no man feels alone in his struggle with anxiety.