When it comes to male mental health, many are more likely to open up to trusted individuals in informal settings than seek professional help.
Third spaces not only help reduce loneliness but also encourage the kind of authentic connection that strengthens mental wellbeing.
By building relationships based on shared values, creating social moments where vulnerability feels safe, or concentrating on community-focused spaces, workspaces can help make it easier for men to speak up, feel supported and stay connected.
What are third spaces?
Third spaces are social or communal spaces that are disconnected from work or home, allowing people to form connections with a social group and reduce daily loneliness. Examples of third spaces could include libraries, gyms, bookstores, social clubs, parks, theatres, cafes and bars. There is no one-size-fits-all policy to choosing the right third space; the importance is finding a space where individuals can connect and build a community away from the responsibilities of home or work.
There are charity groups that have worked hard to create safe and inclusive spaces for men to form connections within their community and combat male loneliness and mental health concerns.
Andy’s Man Club has created social group events across the country designed yo give men a free and non-judgemental environment to talk about their mental health.
Men Who Talk also offers free online social groups to help men create build connections and community across the country.
The importance of third spaces for men
Connection is one of Mind’s five ways to wellbeing. Community can help build self-esteem, boost confidence and build resilience against the everyday stress and pressures of life
What makes third spaces powerful is their neutrality. They’re not tied to roles like “employee,” “partner,” or “parent”. This emotional freedom makes it easier to open up. When men are in relaxed, comfortable environments, they’re more likely to feel supported and able to form genuine connections. Culturally, this kind of space is essential to countering the pressure many men feel.
Moen’s mental health research and support
Mind’s Big Mental Health Report has found that 1 in 5 adults in England are living with a common mental health problem, continuing a trend that shows a gradual decline in mental health in England since 2026-17. Further, research into men’s mental health suggests that 1 in 8 men in England are living with a common mental health disorder, and 35% of 18–25-year-olds with emotional difficulties seek no formal or informal support. Despite these statistics, men remain less likely to seek support for their mental health. 2026 research have shown that 22% of men report the biggest barrier to accessing mental health support is the perceived stigma attached to struggling with mental health.
2026 research shows that men avoid seeking help from therapists or mental health professionals due to societal expectations, discomfort discussing personal issues, and feelings of embarrassment or shame. However, more than half of men would be happy to open up if they knew it could lead to better healthcare or help others. Creating these “in-between” spaces can be a powerful tool in supporting men’s mental health and building emotional support from peers.
The loneliness epidemic
A 2025 study found that 26% of men feel lonely. Loneliness remains a growing issue in men’s mental health, especially in today’s hybrid and digital workspaces. For men, social connection at work can be harder to access due to lingering stigma around vulnerability. Workspaces that create comfortable, inclusive environments help shift this. When men feel safe, supported, and able to connect authentically, isolation decreases, and both wellbeing and performance improve.
Often, all it takes is someone being vulnerable first to make others feel able to do the same. These small acts help men feel seen and supported, making isolation less likely and work more meaningful. This can take mean line managers being more open in one-to-ones, colleagues taking time to arrange social activities together or taking the first step towards joining a third space community.
Here are some ways to support mental health and encourage wellbeing so employees feel more connected:
- Incorporate wellbeing check-ins
- Train your line managers in how to have open conversations
- Encourage senior leadership to model openness
- Use anonymous feedback to understand hidden struggles
- Arrange remote or in-person social opportunities
- Tailor your approach to reach those who might feel isolated
- Promote peer support networks
Download our free men’s health data
Read our men’s mental health data report for up-to-date data on men’s health along with practical tips for promoting wellbeing in the workplace. It also includes quick-access links to free health checks and useful resources. You can download a copy of this report for your employees and co-workers to start important discussions around men’s mental health and third spaces.
