Brethren,
As we gather during the month of June, we recognize Men’s Mental Health Month originally designated as Men’s heath awareness month in 1992 its has grown into specifically Men’s Mental Heath month.—a time dedicated to raising awareness of the unique mental and emotional challenges faced by men and encouraging meaningful conversations about well-being, support, and hope.
As Masons, we often speak of strength, integrity, and perseverance. Yet true strength is not found in suffering alone. It is found in the courage to ask for help, to support a Brother in need, and to acknowledge that every man, regardless of station or circumstance, carries burdens that may not be visible to the world.
Mental health struggles affect men of every age, occupation, and background. Depression, anxiety, loneliness, substance abuse, financial stress, grief, and trauma can touch any of us. Unfortunately, many men have been taught from an early age to hide their emotions, to “tough it out,” or to suffer in silence. While resilience is admirable, isolation can be dangerous.
The statistics are sobering.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 720,000 people worldwide die by suicide every year. Suicide accounts for approximately one out of every one hundred deaths
Globally, men die by suicide at significantly higher rates than women. In many countries, men account for approximately three to four times as many suicide deaths as women. Research indicates that over half a million men worldwide die by suicide each year.
Behind every statistic is a father, a son, a husband, a friend, a coworker, or perhaps a Brother. The loss extends far beyond the individual, leaving lasting impacts on families, communities, and organizations such as our own Craft.
Freemasonry has long taught the importance of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. These are not merely words recited during ritual; they are principles intended to guide our actions. Brotherly Love reminds us that every man deserves compassion and understanding. Relief teaches us to aid those who are suffering, not only materially but emotionally and spiritually. Truth encourages us to be honest with ourselves and with one another.
One of the most meaningful lessons of Masonry is that no man is meant to stand alone. We are taught to support each other, to care for one another, and to be mindful of the welfare of our Brethren. In many ways, the Lodge should be one of the safest places a man can admit he is struggling.
The phrase often heard among Masons, “I am my Brother’s keeper,” carries profound meaning when discussing mental health. Being our Brother’s keeper does not mean solving every problem. It means paying attention. It means making a phone call when someone has not attended Lodge for a while. It means asking, “How are you really doing?” and being willing to listen to the answer. It means noticing changes in behavior and offering support before a crisis develops.
Sometimes the most important act of relief is simply being present.
We should also remember that seeking help is not weakness. It is wisdom. If a Brother broke his arm, we would encourage him to see a doctor. If he suffered a heart attack, we would insist he receive medical care. Mental health deserves the same respect and attention as physical health.
As Masons, we work to perfect ourselves in Masonry. That process includes caring for our minds and emotions as well as our character. A man who seeks counseling, therapy, medical treatment, or support from trusted friends and family is demonstrating responsibility, not failure.
This June, I encourage each of us to take three simple actions:
Check in with a Brother, friend, or family member.
Be willing to speak honestly about your own struggles when appropriate.
Encourage anyone who may be struggling to seek professional help and support.
Brethren, the working tools of Masonry teach us to build. Let us use them symbolically to build stronger men, stronger families, stronger Lodges, and stronger communities. Let us replace silence with conversation, isolation with fellowship, and despair with hope.
As we leave here today, may we remember that every man carries unseen burdens. A kind word, a listening ear, or a simple act of concern may make more difference than we ever know.
Let us truly live the principles we profess and remember that no Brother should ever feel he walks alone.
Thank you, Brethren.
Presented at the June 2026 Stated Meeting by WM Ian Christiansen
