Men’s Health Month 2025: A Time for Healing, Awareness, and Action

At The 1937 Foundation, we believe in promoting health equity, community education, and holistic healing. Every June, Men’s Health Month allows us to focus on the unique challenges men face when it comes to their physical and mental well-being. 

What started as a week-long awareness campaign in the 1990s has grown into a national movement that empowers men to take control of their health. But for many Black and Brown men in cities like Chicago, this conversation must also include access, trust, and the healing of intergenerational wounds.

A Brief History of Men’s Health Month

Men’s Health Month began in 1994 as National Men’s Health Week. Established by Congress and signed into law by President Bill Clinton, it was originally timed to coincide with Father’s Day as a way to encourage men and boys to seek out preventive care. As the campaign gained traction, it expanded to cover the entire month of June, reflecting the urgency of improving health outcomes for men across the country.

What started as a focus on physical health has evolved to include mental health, emotional well-being, and even social connectedness. Organizations and healthcare providers now use this month to address stigma, create supportive spaces, and promote proactive behavior in men of all ages. It’s no longer just about getting a check-up. It’s about starting conversations and building habits that last a lifetime.

Why Men’s Health Month Still Matters

Despite progress, the statistics remain concerning. Men are more likely to die prematurely than women, and they often delay seeking medical care until symptoms become severe. Many skip regular screenings or avoid addressing health issues altogether. This silence often stems from social expectations that reward toughness while punishing vulnerability.

Mental health presents an even greater challenge. Men are significantly more likely to die by suicide, yet far less likely to seek therapy or professional support. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use often go untreated because of the cultural pressure to “man up” instead of speaking out.

Men’s Health Month works to change that narrative. It encourages men to check in with themselves, connect with others, and get real about their needs. That means physically, mentally, and emotionally. It also gives healthcare providers and community groups a platform to offer education, screenings, and support without judgment or shame.

The Urgency of Men’s Health Month in Black and Brown Communities

In Chicago and across the country, Black and Brown men face an uphill battle when it comes to health outcomes. The life expectancy gap between Black residents and white residents remains alarmingly wide. This disparity is not just a reflection of individual behavior, it’s the result of systemic barriers. These include poverty, lack of healthcare access, housing insecurity, and exposure to chronic stress and community violence.

Mental health services are often underutilized in communities of color, not because of a lack of need but because of a lack of trust and access. Historically, these communities have been underserved, underrepresented, and at times mistreated by the medical system. As a result, many men suffer in silence, unaware of or unable to access the resources that could help them.

That’s why local, culturally rooted organizations play a critical role. Programs like Project Brotherhood on Chicago’s South Side provide free medical care, mental health support, and health education tailored to Black men. Initiatives like Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health make therapy more approachable by offering sessions in familiar community spaces. These programs reflect what The 1937 Foundation stands for: equity, access, and healing grounded in community trust.

How Men Can Take Action This Month

Whether you're a teenager, a father, or a senior, Men’s Health Month is a reminder that your health matters. Small changes and consistent habits can make a big difference. Here are some practical steps every man can take this month and beyond:

• Schedule a Wellness Visit: Don’t wait for a crisis. Annual checkups can help detect issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and prostate concerns early.

• Talk About Your Mental Health: Speak honestly with friends, family, or a therapist. You don’t have to carry the weight alone.

• Get Moving: Regular physical activity boosts both physical and mental health. Whether it’s walking, lifting weights, or playing ball, just get active.

• Eat With Intention: A diet full of real, whole foods supports long-term health. Cut back on processed foods and drink more water.

• Join a Community Program: Engage with organizations that support wellness. Local events, free clinics, and support circles can provide valuable tools and connection. Additionally, check The 1937 Foundation’s event page for any upcoming wellness events.

What Men’s Health Month Looks Like in 2025

This year, the theme behind Men’s Health Month 2025 is more holistic than ever. Wellness is no longer just about blood pressure and cholesterol numbers. It’s about mental resilience, emotional intelligence, and feeling safe enough to ask for help.

It’s also about recognizing the layers of oppression that impact marginalized men, and understanding how racism, trauma, and economic stressors all contribute to the health gap. The 1937 Foundation continues to support movements and policies that center community wellness, dismantle stigma, and uplift local health champions who are doing the work every day.

Wellness Is a Collective Responsibility

Men’s Health Month is not just for men. It’s for families, communities, and the systems that shape our lives. At The 1937 Foundation, we view this month as a powerful reminder that health equity starts with access, trust, and care for the whole person…not just the symptoms.

To every man reading this: your health matters. Your pain is valid. And your healing is possible. Whether you’re taking the first step or continuing your wellness journey, know that you are not alone. Join us this month as we advocate for stronger, healthier, more connected communities. Let’s build a culture where every man has the chance to thrive.