Self-Organized Men's Mental Health and Well-Being Groups-An Emerging Social Development
Richard Gater1, Jonathan Scourfield1, Rhiannon Evans1
1Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
American Journal of Men'S Health
|March 31, 2026
Summary
Men's peer-support groups are growing, with most encouraging emotional openness over practical activities. Many groups see rising participation despite lacking formal staff, highlighting a need for research on optimal delivery and effectiveness for men's mental health.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Mental Health Research
- Community Psychology
Background:
- Men's mental health is a significant concern, marked by high suicide rates and service demands.
- Community-based men's health initiatives, like Men's Sheds, are expanding.
- Limited research exists on the function and impact of men's peer-support groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey men's mental health and well-being groups in Wales.
- To describe group characteristics: audience, theory, activities, and delivery.
- To understand the current landscape of men's peer support.
Main Methods:
- An online survey distributed to men's mental health and well-being groups in Wales.
- The survey included fixed-response and open-ended questions.
- Data collected on group activities, participation, structure, and barriers.
Main Results:
- Most groups (79%) promote emotional openness, surpassing practical activities (40%).
- Groups report increasing participation, often without formal staff.
- A shift towards direct emotional sharing rather than 'health by stealth' is suggested.
Conclusions:
- Men's peer-support groups are evolving, with a focus on direct emotional sharing.
- Rising participation indicates a need for support and structure.
- Further research is crucial for optimizing delivery, understanding member experiences, and proving effectiveness in improving men's mental health.
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