Common men’s health concerns and symptoms

Many mental health conditions have overlapping symptoms. The best course of action is to connect with a health care professional who can help guide you toward the proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The following are just some potential symptoms related to men’s mental health diagnoses.

Disordered eating (source)

There are many types of eating disorders; the most common types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder. It’s important to keep in mind that there are other eating disorders and that many people may only show a few symptoms of an eating disorder.

Anorexia nervosa (an eating disorder marked by significant undereating, leading to malnutrition)

1. Becoming preoccupied with body shape
2. Hair loss, dry skin, and growth of lanugo (fine) hair
3. Inability to regulate temperature (e.g., being cold all the time)
4. Low iron levels
5. Obsession with food, calories, or exercise
6. Secrecy around eating
7. Self-esteem that is heavily influenced by body image
8. Significant weight loss
9. Slow heart rate

Bulimia nervosa (an eating disorder marked by binge eating, then purging)

1. Becoming preoccupied with body shape
2. Behaviours that are signs of purging (e.g., vomiting, using laxatives inappropriately, frequent trips to the bathroom after eating)
3. Episodes of binging then purging that occur at least once a week for 3 months (source)
4. Obsession with food, calories, or exercise
5. Secrecy around eating
6. Self-esteem that is heavily influenced by body image
7. Signs of vomiting, including damaged teeth, swollen cheeks or jawline 
8. Stomach pain or changes in bowel movements    
9. Weight changes

Binge eating disorder (an eating disorder marked by significant overeating even after feeling full)

1. Binges that occur at least once a week for 3 months (source)
2. Feelings of guilt/shameabout overeating
3. Lack of control or overeating in short periods of time
4. Secrecy around eating
5. Significant weight gain

Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (an eating disorder marked by a very restrictive diet)

1. Limited range of food consumed
2. Loss of appetite or interest in food
3. Secrecy around eating
4. Significant weight loss

Depression – 5 or more symptoms lasting 2 weeks or more (source)

1. Thoughts of suicide 
2. Feelings of despair and hopelessness
3. Detachment from life and the people around you
4. Always feeling tired or having no energy
5. Not being able to concentrate or make decisions
6. A loss of appetite or a change in sleep patterns
7. Headaches or stomach upsets that occur frequently

Anxiety – 3 or more symptoms lasting 6 months or more (source)

1. Irrational and excessive fear
2. Feeling restless or irritable
3. Increased muscle aches and soreness
4. Anxious thoughts, predictions, or beliefs 
5. Difficulty managing daily tasks and/or distress related to these tasks
6. Avoidance of feared situations and/or activities that elicit sensations similar to those experienced when anxious

Substance Use Disorder – 2 or more symptoms within a 12-month period (source)

1. Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you’re meant to
2. Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but inability to stop/reduce usage
3. Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance
4. Cravings and urges to use the substance
5. Impaired function at work, home, or school because of substance use
6. Continuing to use substances even when it causes problems in relationships
7. Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use
8. Using substances repeatedly , even when it puts you in danger
9. Continuing to use substances, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by the substance
10. Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want (tolerance)
11. Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance

If you require mental health and wellness support, reach out to your HR or People and Culture representative to help you navigate the resources and programs available.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which are confidential services offered by employers, let you discuss personal concerns affecting your personal wellbeing. EAPs can also help you find a therapist best suited to your needs. In addition, many EAPs may offer the option to connect with health, life, or career coaches who specialize in men’s health and wellness, and can be a great addition to counselling services.

If you or a loved one are struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation, or are experiencing acute mental health concerns, don’t hesitate to call the suicide crisis hotline at 9-8-8. If you have concerns about the immediate safety of yourself or a loved one, call 9-1-1 for further support.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2026. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Mens-Mental-Health-Awareness-Symptoms-and-Support