Supporting Men’s Health Through Whole-Person Care

When it comes to men’s health, conversation often focuses on either the mental or the physical. But well-being is more complex, shaped by many different aspects of life. And because it’s multifaceted, there are so many ways to support and strengthen it. Beyond EAP counselling, Arcora offers an array of supports that benefit not only men’s mental health, but overall well-being.

Easier Access for Ease of Mind

Asking for help is tough, and while awareness has helped to shift the narrative around seeking support, gendered expectations and unrealistic standards for masculinity can still affect how men express themselves and care for their well-being.

We want everyone to feel more comfortable taking that first step, which is why we offer a choice in how to reach out. You can call (1-877-412-7483) to discuss the challenges you’re facing with an Arcora Clinical Coordinator or complete our confidential online form if you’d prefer a more self-directed option. Whichever you choose, you’ll be met with compassion and connected to the right support, even if you’re not exactly sure what you’re looking for.

Comprehensive Mental Health Support

Not all EAP counselling is created equally. Recognizing that care should reflect each person’s unique needs and circumstances, Arcora’s counselling:

• Offers individual, couples and family sessions that provide flexibility to address personal, work or relationship issues in whatever way works best, whether that’s one-on-one with your counsellor or together with a partner or child.
• Can help with complex challenges, like life transitions, substance use and addiction, chronic health conditions, grief, trauma, workplace struggles and many other areas that go beyond standard short-term counselling.
• Is offered in person, by phone, virtually or through a combination of these options, with evening and weekend appointments available to fit your schedule.
• Uses a resilience model, which focuses on developing skills to better navigate current and future challenges.
• Is mindful of the diverse influences that can affect mental health, including socio-economic factors, lived experience, gender and sexuality, spirituality and so many more. We invite clients to share any preferences or specific details that can help create a stronger counsellor match, while taking a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes safety, trust, choice and respect for each person’s unique experiences.

A Multifaceted Approach to Men’s Health

Men take on many roles throughout their lives—as employees, partners, fathers, friends, caregivers—the list goes on, and with each role comes different expectations and challenges. Supporting overall well-being means recognizing that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation. Financial pressures, family responsibilities and other everyday concerns can all affect how we feel.

That’s why Arcora’s EAP extends beyond counselling, with a range of supports for different areas of life.

• Financial guidance can reduce money-related stress, whether you have questions about budgeting, debt reduction, taxes or retirement planning.
• Legal guidance can give you general insight into a wide variety of personal and family law topics or offer clarity for confusing legal forms and jargon.
• Nutritional guidance gives you access to a registered dietician for personalized, evidence-based nutrition support that meets your well-being and lifestyle goals.
• Eldercare guidance and childcare navigation support help you make informed caregiving decisions for your loved ones.

Improving Men’s Health Through Everyday Actions

Research has shown that Canadian men have a lower life expectancy than women and are less likely to seek care from a doctor or access preventative services like health screening. They’re also twice as likely to die from preventable causes than women, and nearly three times as likely to die by suicide.

Well-being challenges also don’t affect all men equally. Indigenous men, men from racialized groups and men in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community often face additional barriers to care, including discrimination, systemic racism and economic inequality.

While these challenges are significant, supporting men’s well-being doesn’t always require a big gesture. Actions that may seem small can make a huge difference—like noticing that someone isn’t his usual self and starting a conversation. There’s a good chance that a man you’re close to could use some encouragement to take better care of himself, or a reminder that strength isn’t found in facing struggles alone but in recognizing that we can all use a little help sometimes.

Support can look different for everyone, and several organizations offer resources specifically focused on caring for men’s well-being:

Suicide Prevention

Buddy Up, a Canadian suicide prevention campaign aimed at encouraging real conversation and connection between men.

Self-Care and Mental Health

HeadsUpGuys, a Canadian resource hub offering self-care supports and mental health resources for men, as well as guidance to help friends and family support the men in their lives.

Social Connection and Community

• Men’s Sheds, a movement for community, where men can build camaraderie and find common interests through local groups across Canada known as sheds.
• DUDES Club, a participant-led community program in British Columbia that focuses on men’s health through Indigenous perspectives and approaches to wellness.

Men’s Health and Well-being

Movember, a global initiative focused on advocacy and research for men’s mental health, suicide prevention and prostate and testicular cancer.

2SLGBTQIA+ Well-being

HIM (Health Initiative for Men), a non-profit based in British Columbia offering well-being resources and community supports for gay, bisexual and queer men, as well as gender-diverse people.

Taking the First Step

Whether you’re managing everyday stress, going through a difficult time or simply looking for guidance, confidential support is available with Arcora. Reach out and our team will help with the rest.