Today is International Men’s Day, which is a time to think about the struggles faced by half the population.

The annual event was started in 1992, and it has grown each year, now being celebrated in over 70 countries worldwide.

Far from being an antithesis to International Women’s Day, this occasion marks ways we can all work together to change gender stereotyping and discrimination – just this time the focus is on men.

Particularly given the fact that the biggest killer in young men here in the UK is suicide, it’s more important than ever to ensure boys are supported and given the tools to ask for help.


There were six pillars at the core of International Mens Day back when it was founded. They are:



To promote positive male role models; not just movie stars and sports men but everyday, working class men who are living decent, honest lives. To celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, child care, and to the environment. To focus on men’s health and wellbeing; social, emotional, physical and spiritual. To highlight discrimination against males; in areas of social services, social attitudes and expectations, and law. To improve gender relations and promote gender equality. To create a safer, better world; where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential.

The theme this year is Positive Male Role Models, which ties in with pillar one.

The idea is to give young men people to look up to and aspire to be like.

Mental health is also always a big talking point on this day, as the ‘man up’ trope often means that young men don’t get help when they’re struggling with depression or anxiety.

People will be sharing messages of support and encouragement to boys and men across the world, urging them to seek support with friends, family, and medical professionals if they need it.

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