Mental health is a silent illness, and men disproportionately suffer quietly. However, this does not have to be a personal, isolating struggle. Employers can play a vital role in destigmatizing mental health challenges and opening doors to proper care.

While June's Men's Mental Health Month calls attention to the issue, year-round consideration and action is required. Why? Males are 30% less likely to seek treatment than females and mental illness costs the U.S. $282 billion annually. Reversing the trend and convincing male employees to seek help requires a multi-faceted effort that reduces traditional barriers to care and overcomes stereotypes that encourage "manning up."

Mental health benefit strategies are most potent when reinforced by an environment that honors privacy, fosters empathy, and provides support. To evaluate or craft your company's approach to men's (or general) mental health, the following outlines steps and actions that can inform your efforts, build the proper infrastructure and resources, and ensure a healthy, productive workplace.