Men's Lived Experience of Mental Health during COVID-19: Research Report to Australian Men's Health Forum

A mixed-methods study of men in Australia explored their lived experience of mental health during COVID-19 from 2020 to 2021. An online survey and semi-structured interviews found that social determinants of health such as the nature of employment, financial stability, quality of relationships, mental illness diagnoses and access to support services had varying impacts on reported levels of psychological distress. Isolation, slowing down, help-seeking and cumulative stress were identified as major themes, and men employed a range of coping strategies that were both helpful and harmful to their ongoing mental wellbeing. The study has implications for (1) understanding men’s lived experience, (2) challenging previously uncontested stereotypes about male attitudes and behaviours, (3) developing male-friendly support services, and (4) contributing to mental health policies in the event of future pandemic situations. The study was commissioned by the National Mental Health Commission and funded by Australian Men’s Health Forum and Western Sydney University