A new survey by Greene King has revealed that 52% of men feel more comfortable discussing personal concerns side by side rather than face to face.
However, despite growing awareness of men’s mental health, only 34% regularly open up to family and friends. And, alarmingly, 11% don’t feel comfortable reaching out to anyone.
For men living with cancer, the silence can be even louder. New Macmillan Cancer Support data shows nearly half (49%) of men with cancer in the UK experience worry, fear, or anxiety due to their diagnosis. Additionally, 14% are struggling with serious physical or emotional concerns for which they are not receiving any support.
To highlight the barriers to men opening up, Greene King and Macmillan have teamed up to create a powerful short film inspired by real life experiences.
The film examines why men don’t talk and how to create a trusted environment to facilitate more of these critical conversations. It encourages men to stand shoulder to shoulder during March and beyond to support each other, and shines a light on how side-by-side conversations can unlock the hardest truths, allowing men to feel connected.
The film, which can be viewed here — released to coincide with Prostate Cancer Awareness Month — will be showcased at some of Greene King’s pubs nationwide, transforming familiar social spaces into places where tough conversations can become that little bit easier.
Nearly two-thirds (63%) of men surveyed are most likely to open up while out and about with friends or family, over food and drink (52%), including in places like pubs, and during walks (26%).
‘Pubs are places where life unfolds’
Despite growing awareness around men’s mental and physical health, only 34% of men regularly (more than once a month) talk to family or friends about personal issues. Even more concerning, one in nine (11%) say they wouldn’t feel comfortable reaching out for support at all.
The research also reveals a generational gap: young men aged 18 to 24 particularly struggle with opening up face to face, with just 29% feeling comfortable speaking to family and friends about difficult topics in person — a worrying contrast to nearly half (47%) of men over 55, who feel most at ease talking in the open.
“Pubs are places where life unfolds and where we gather to share moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between,” said Greene King chief executive Nick Mackenzie.
“They offer an opportunity for people to come together, speak side by side, fostering a true sense of community. Talking about cancer or a health concern is never easy, but Macmillan’s Support Line plays a vital role in supporting people when they need it the most.
“This March, our fantastic pub teams across the country will be hosting a number of charity events, to support our commitment to direct the first half of this year’s fundraising to the Support Line, so that more people in our communities can access Macmillan’s help when they need it the most.”
The free Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you are worried about money or treatment, or you just want to speak about whatever matters to you, the Support Line is available seven days a week, from 8am to 8pm, on 0808 808 0000. Find out more about the Greene King and Macmillan Cancer Support partnership here.
