When it comes to mental health, men continue to fall through the cracks. Adrian Munro from Richmind WA is calling for a national rethink. “Sadly, men make up 75% of all deaths by suicide,” said Adrian. “They’re also dying four years younger than women.”

Despite Australia’s strong record in tailoring mental health services for various groups, like Aboriginal communities, migrants, women, and young people, men are still overlooked. “What we haven’t done is design services specifically for men,” Adrian explained. “We need services designed by men, for men.”

It Starts With Policy

Adrian and his team have been advocating for men to be listed as a priority group in state and federal suicide prevention plans.

“It might sound boring talking about government documents and policies,” he admitted. “But they’re actually really important. These plans decide where the money and resources go.”

Until men are listed as a priority group, services simply won’t change.

Meet Men Where They’re At

One of the biggest challenges? Traditional clinical settings just don’t work for many men. “Men are half as likely as women to go to a GP or a psychologist,” said Adrian. “It’s not where they feel comfortable for that first interaction.”

Instead, men want community-based support. They want to talk to someone in a setting that feels natural, not clinical. “We keep saying, ‘Men need to talk. Men need to go to the GP.’ But many are already trying. They just don’t have the right services,” Adrian said.

It’s Not Just a Stat, It’s Personal

Adrian acknowledged the emotional toll these statistics represent. “I know we’ve all been touched by tragedy. I could think of four or five mates in my own life we’ve lost to suicide,” he shared.

Every life matters. “One death is one too many. Yet we’re losing over 2,000 men a year in this country,” Adrian warned. “That’s more than twice the national road toll.”

How You Can Help

Richmind WA is hosting a men’s mental health conference later this year, and Adrian is encouraging everyone to get involved.

“Support organisations like ours and Men’s Talk. Write to your politicians. Join the public conversation,” he said. “Get behind events and fundraisers. These actions really do help.”

Where to Find Out More

To learn more about the advocacy work or upcoming events, head to Richmind WA’s website or follow them on social media. “We’d love any support we can get,” Adrian said. “Talking about this makes a huge difference.”

If You Need Help

If this conversation has impacted you, support is available. Contact Lifeline at 13 11 14. Talk to your friends, your family, or someone you trust. “Please don’t suffer in silence,” Adrian urged. “We’re here to listen. And we want to help.”

Listen to the full conversation below.