Campaign aims to break mental health taboo among men

A new campaign is seeking to tackle the stigma around men’s mental health in Flanders, where men account for the vast majority of deaths by suicide.

The initiative, Kom uit je kop (“Come Out of your Head”), has been launched by the Flemish Centre of Expertise in Suicide Prevention (VLESP). It aims to encourage men to speak more openly about their struggles and to seek help.

Figures from 2023 show that 887 people in Flanders died by suicide. Of these, 652 were men (73.5 per cent) and 235 were women (26.5 per cent). Research also found that men are far less likely to seek help when experiencing suicidal thoughts. Around 26 per cent of men said they did not seek any support at all, compared with 8 per cent of women.

Experts say social stigma and traditional gender norms play a major role. Many men struggle to recognise or admit they need help, often downplaying their feelings or staying silent. Expectations around masculinity can also make it harder for men to express emotions or ask for support. Negative past experiences when seeking help may further discourage them.

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As part of the campaign, VLESP has partnered with clothing retailer e5 to release a line of T-shirts. The designs feature labels and washing instructions on the outside, symbolising the idea of making inner thoughts more visible. The campaign also urges friends, family and colleagues to be more aware of men who may be struggling.

In addition, the campaign website has been updated with resources for men experiencing suicidal thoughts and for those around them. An e-learning module has also been developed to help professionals better understand how gender norms affect care.

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