Key Takeaways

• According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), men die by suicide at nearly four times the rate of women in the United States.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 11.5% of adult men currently smoke cigarettes, and men are more likely than women to use e-cigarettes.
• Research published in the CDC's journal Preventing Chronic Disease found that nearly 42% of youth who use e-cigarettes reported moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety or depression.
• Quitting smoking or vaping and seeking support for mental health concerns can improve both physical and emotional well-being.

June is Men's Health Month, a time to highlight the health challenges men face and encourage healthier choices. While physical health often receives the most attention, mental health remains a critical part of overall well-being.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), men die by suicide at nearly four times the rate of women in the United States. At the same time, men are more likely to use nicotine products, including cigarettes and e-cigarettes.

Many people use nicotine to cope with stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions. While cigarettes and vaping products may provide temporary relief, nicotine dependence can contribute to increased anxiety, irritability, and other symptoms over time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 11.5% of adult men currently smoke cigarettes, and men are also more likely than women to use e-cigarettes. Research published in the CDC's journal Preventing Chronic Disease found that nearly 42% of youth who use e-cigarettes reported moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety or depression, highlighting the close relationship between nicotine use and mental health challenges.

Mental health struggles in men do not always look the way people expect. According to NIMH, symptoms of depression in men may include irritability, anger, social withdrawal, or increased use of substances such as nicotine or alcohol. Because these signs can be overlooked, many men go without the support they need.

Recognizing the connection between mental health and nicotine use is an important step toward improving health outcomes. Quitting smoking or vaping can benefit both physical and mental health, and seeking support for stress, anxiety, or depression can make that journey easier.

Resources for Support and Help

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available.

Mental Health Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
• Mental Health America: mhanational.org
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org

Quit Smoking and Vaping Resources

• Tobacco Free YC: tobaccofreeyc.org
• Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids: tobaccofreekids.org
• Smokefree.gov: smokefree.gov
• Truth Initiative EX Program: becomeanex.org

Author's Note: This article was researched and drafted with assistance from ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence tool developed by OpenAI. All statistics, sources, and final editorial decisions were reviewed and verified prior to publication

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