June 2025 marks Men’s Health Month in the United States, with this year’s theme—“Close the Lifespan Gender Gap by Addressing the Empathy Gap”—spotlighting the pressing health disparities affecting men and boys nationwide. The campaign, led by the Men’s Health Network (MHN), urges communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers to confront the societal and systemic factors contributing to men’s shorter life expectancy and under-addressed health challenges.
Understanding the Lifespan and Empathy Gaps
On average, men in the U.S. die six years earlier than women, often from preventable causes such as heart disease, cancer, and suicide. This disparity, known as the lifespan gender gap, is compounded by what MHN describes as the “empathy gap”—a societal tendency to minimize or overlook men’s physical, mental, and emotional health needs. This gap manifests in various ways, including less frequent health screenings, underfunded research on male-specific conditions, and cultural stigmas that discourage men from seeking help.
“Improving men’s well-being is not optional—it’s essential,” said Jennifer Thompson, Director of Communications at MHN. “This month, we’re focused on empathy, outreach, and education. We believe in a world where supporting men’s health is seen not as a competing cause, but as a shared responsibility.”
Nationwide Initiatives and Community Engagement
Throughout June, various organizations and communities are hosting events and campaigns to encourage men to prioritize their health. American Men’s Health Week, observed from June 9 to 15, includes initiatives such as “Wear Blue Day” every Friday to raise awareness. Participants are encouraged to don blue attire and share their support on social media using hashtags like #WearBlue and #ShowUsYourBlue.
Local health departments are also actively participating. For instance, Greene County Public Health in Ohio is promoting Men’s Health Month by urging men to engage in regular health check-ups and open discussions about their well-being. Their initiatives aim to provide accessible resources and support systems to address the unique health challenges faced by men in their community.
Addressing Mental Health and Societal Stigmas
Mental health remains a critical focus, as men are statistically less likely to seek help for psychological issues. Cultural expectations often discourage men from expressing vulnerability, leading to underdiagnosed conditions and higher suicide rates. MHN emphasizes the importance of creating environments where men feel supported in seeking help and prioritizing their mental health.
Policy Advocacy and Educational Resources
MHN is advocating for policy changes to better support men’s and boys’ health, including increased funding for gender-specific research and the promotion of proactive healthcare. They have released educational materials, such as “The Gap Guide,” to provide information on preventive care and encourage men to take active roles in their health.
A Call to Action
As Men’s Health Month 2025 continues, individuals and organizations are encouraged to participate in events, share information, and engage in conversations about men’s health. By working together to close the lifespan gender gap and address the empathy gap, society can make significant strides in improving the health and well-being of men and boys across the nation.