Men Accounted for 72% of Suicides in 2022 According to the National Crime Records Bureau, men represented 72% of suicides in India in 2022. This startling statistic is more than just a number, it’s an alarming call. Mental health experts are urging organizations to take action, especially when it comes to how workplaces support (or fail to support) men’s mental health. And it starts with HR.
For decades, society told men to "man up", bottle up emotions, and power through mental strain. But the reality? This pressure to stay silent is silently harming men at work.
Men face burnout, anxiety, and depression, just like anyone else. But they are less likely to speak up, seek therapy, or even admit they’re struggling. As HR leaders, it’s time we rewrite the narrative.
Use this ready-to-adapt template from Pazcare to drive meaningful change.
Purpose: To provide a structured and stigma-free approach to supporting men’s mental health at work.
Scope: Applies to all employees assigned male at birth, including those experiencing mental health challenges like stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and burnout.
Leave entitlement: Up to [X] paid working days per year for mental health concerns. Can be taken as a block or in intervals. Additional unpaid leave may be offered as needed.
Note: At Pazcare, we recommend at least 5 paid days, with flexible extensions.
Booking process:
Support access:
Awareness & training:
Policy integration
Confidentiality: All conversations and records are kept strictly confidential. Only HR and direct managers (when necessary) are involved.
Review cycle: Policy should be reviewed annually or after changes in laws, data, or employee feedback.
Disclaimer: This blog and the included Men’s mental health policy template are provided by Pazcare for general informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute legal, medical, or professional advice. Organizations should consult with their legal counsel, healthcare professionals, and internal HR teams to ensure that any workplace policy complies with applicable laws and is tailored to their specific workforce needs and context.
At Pazcare, we understand that addressing mental health in the workplace isn’t just about drafting policies, it’s about enabling access, encouraging conversations, and making support feel personal and stigma-free. That’s why our approach blends benefits, tools, and training into a single, cohesive framework tailored for real organizational impact.
Also, read our blog on how companies can contribute to employee mental health solutions for HR professionals
Here’s how Pazcare helps you build a mentally healthier workplace:
Key takeaway: Supporting men’s mental health at work is both a business and cultural imperative because men’s mental health matters too. When men feel safe, seen, and supported, they are not afraid to say, “We do care, and we can be emotional too, while still being a man, despite everything else.”
Men’s mental health is everyone’s business, and HR is at the front line of change. By implementing a structured, inclusive, and stigma-free mental health policy, you not only protect your people, you strengthen your organization.
Ready to Take Action?
Let Pazcare help you launch a mental health strategy that works, backed by policy templates, licensed care access, and real-world support.
Disclaimer
This is a general guide, not a legal document, and may not cover all laws under the Indian Labour law. Neither the writer nor Pazcare will be liable for any legal consequences arising from its use. Consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance and adapt this guide to your business needs.
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Men often experience mental health stigma differently due to societal expectations around masculinity, which can make it harder for them to seek help. A dedicated mental health policy tailored for men helps create safer, more understanding spaces where they feel comfortable expressing vulnerability and accessing support without fear of judgment.
Yes. While the policy specifically addresses the needs of employees assigned male at birth, it is designed to be respectful and inclusive of all gender identities. It acknowledges the diversity of gender experiences and ensures support is accessible to everyone within that group.
A formal diagnosis is not always necessary to access support under this policy. A consultation note from a qualified healthcare professional confirming that the employee is seeking help or treatment is sufficient. This approach removes barriers for those who may be in the early stages of recognizing their mental health needs.
Absolutely. This mental health policy is designed to complement existing wellness programs such as sick leave, disability benefits, employee assistance programs, and general wellness initiatives. Together, they create a comprehensive support system that addresses both physical and mental well-being.
Start by presenting relevant data that highlights the importance of mental health support for men. Share statistics on male suicide rates, the financial impact of absenteeism and presenteeism due to untreated mental health issues, and evidence showing the return on investment (ROI) from mental health programs. Follow this with clear examples and this policy template to demonstrate a practical and effective solution.