Massive uptake in free counselling initiative for men

More than 2,000 men have now accessed the free counselling initiative for men since it was launched in September 2025.

The massive uptake in the first six months highlights a visible willingness among men to support their mental health.

Since its inception, men have been referred to counselling services through their GP or via a dedicated counselling phone line, and over 13,000 sessions have taken place.

The sessions have been delivered by the HSE’s Counselling in Primary Care service, along with the organisation MyMind.

Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler said: “The take-up of the free counselling supports to date is a significant milestone, and I commend the 2,000 men who have reached out for support; many for the first time in their lives. You have done something brilliant for yourself and your mental health, and for your family, friends, and everyone who cares about you.

“I say this because we know that women are more likely than men to access counselling services. However, around 80% of people who die by suicide are men. This is a tragedy we are working hard to address, and the reason I established these free services for men. Suicide reduction is a key priority for the government, as reflected by our new national strategy, which I launched with An Taoiseach last month.”

The main purpose of the funding is to challenge and assist with stigma reduction and encourage men to seek help for their mental health when needed.

Minister Butler added: “This is about making support more visible, accessible and tailored to men's needs, and we have made it easier for men to access help when they need it. To any man who is struggling today during Men’s Health Week, I really encourage you to speak to your GP or check yourmentalhealth.ie/men and reach out – the supports are there for you, day or night. It won’t cost you anything, and it could be the start of feeling better and grappling with the difficult emotions or thoughts you are dealing with right now.

“While men are at particular risk of experiencing poor mental health, they are generally recognised as a group with specific needs and preferences, and these factors must be considered when designing supports tailored for them."