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Too many Canadian men and boys are facing challenges with their mental health and well-being without the support they need, according to findings from a nationwide consultation that will help shape Canada's first federal strategy dedicated to men's health.

Health Minister Marjorie Michel released the government's What We Heard Report on Nov. 2, highlighting concerns raised by nearly 6,000 Canadians who participated in discussions about the health and well-being of men and boys.

The findings come during Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness about men's health, and ahead of International Men's Day on Nov. 19.

The report identifies mental health, social isolation and barriers to seeking help as important issues affecting men and boys across the country.

Mental health and social connection among key concerns

Launched in February 2026, the national consultation gathered feedback from individuals, community organizations, health experts and Indigenous partners.

Participants emphasized the importance of improving mental health services, strengthening social connections and reducing the barriers that prevent men and boys from seeking assistance.

The report also highlights the role of mentorship, positive male role models, healthy relationships and community-based support programs.

Health Canada says the experiences of men and boys can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, income, culture, geographic location and personal circumstances.

Those differences are particularly relevant when considering access to health services in rural and remote communities, where available resources and support networks may differ from those in larger centres.

"Nearly 6,000 people from across Canada took part in our national conversation on men and boys' health, sharing their observations and perspectives," Michel said.

"We heard that too many men and boys are struggling, often without the support they need."

The federal government says the feedback will help identify priorities for improving health outcomes and encouraging men to seek support before problems become more serious.

Advocates call for earlier intervention

Organizations involved in the consultation are emphasizing the importance of addressing health concerns before men and boys reach a crisis point.

Kenton Boston, president and CEO of the Canadian Men's Health Foundation, said earlier intervention is essential.

"For too long, we have waited until they're in crisis before offering help. We need to reach boys and young men earlier," Boston said.

He added that improving the health of men and boys can have broader benefits for families and communities.

Movember, which supported the federal consultation as an independent partner, also stressed the importance of social connection and preventative approaches.

Andrew Little, Movember's global chief executive officer, said improving men's health requires creating conditions that support healthier lives long before serious problems develop.

"The findings reinforce what we've long heard from our community: improving men's health starts well before a crisis, by strengthening social connections and creating the conditions for men and boys to live healthier, longer lives," Little said.

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Poor men's health carries economic costs

Beyond the personal impact on individuals and families, the organizations involved say improving men's health could also provide economic benefits.

According to a 2025 study by Movember Canada, improving men's health could save the country an estimated $12.4 billion annually, with additional economic benefits possible through increased productivity.

The federal government says improving men's health will complement ongoing efforts focused on women's health, recognizing that different populations face distinct challenges and may require different approaches to prevention, treatment and support.

First federal men's health strategy coming in 2027

The findings will now help guide the development of Canada's first Federal Men and Boys' Health and Well-being Strategy, expected to be released in early 2027.

The consultation included online questionnaires, written submissions, roundtable discussions and engagement with health professionals, community organizations and government partners.

Movember Canada will continue working with the federal government to engage experts and stakeholders as the strategy takes shape.

While specific programs and funding commitments have not yet been announced, the government says the goal is to develop an approach that better supports men and boys throughout their lives.

With Movember underway, the findings are also drawing attention to the importance of conversations about men's mental health, encouraging help-seeking and building stronger support networks in communities across Canada.

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