New research suggests that the vast majority of young men in the UK would open up more about their mental and physical health given the right encouragement, with one in four 18-24-year-olds saying being in a relaxed and informal setting would help them do so. The new survey from [Greene King](https://www.greeneking.co.uk/), in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, also shows how having distractions such as background noise and less pressure to make direct eye contact could help younger men in particular open up more.
New research reveals that while only a third of 18-24 year olds regularly open up to friends and family, almost all would talk more about their mental or physical health in the right circumstances.
More than one a third find it easier to have difficult or personal conversations with some distractions such as background noise, while a similar number say standing or sitting side-by-side means they can turn away if they get emotional. Overall, half of UK men feel more comfortable opening up about health issues when they’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder.
Greene King and Macmillan have teamed up to create a short film inspired by real-life experiences. The film exposes the reality behind why men don’t talk and how to create a trusted environment to facilitate more of these critical conversations. It encourages men to stand shoulder-to-shoulder to support each other and shines a light on how side-by-side conversations can unlock the hardest truths, allowing men to feel connected so they don’t feel alone.
The film will be showcased at some of Greene King’s pubs nationwide, transforming familiar social spaces into places where tough conversations can become that little bit easier.
Nick Summerfield (37) from Kent, said, "When I got diagnosed, everything changed overnight. It was hard to look into the future, making it difficult to talk about. I think men often hide their feelings, trying to be 'manly.' But sharing your feelings shows you need support and helps loved ones understand you. Opening up relieves pressure and lightens the weight. I’m fortunate to have a great support network, but I had to be brave and express how I really felt."
Greene King is dedicating the first half of 2025 to raising funds for Macmillan’s Support Line – a confidential service for those living with cancer and their loved ones.
Nick Mackenzie, CEO of Greene King, said: “Pubs are places where life unfolds and where we gather to share moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. They offer an opportunity for people to come together, speak side by side, fostering a true sense of community. Talking about cancer or a health concern is never easy, but Macmillan’s Support Line plays a vital role in supporting people when they need it the most. This March our fantastic pub teams across the country will be hosting a number of charity events, to support our commitment to direct the first half of this year’s fundraising to the Support Line, so that more people in our communities can access Macmillan's help when they need it the most.”
The top ways to facilitate conversations with younger men include:
1. Using shared experiences to encourage conversations
2. Enabling men to feel emotionally ready to share
3. Ensuring the setting is relaxed and informal
4. One to one with a trusted friend
5. Ensuring confidentiality
If you are worried about money or treatment, or you just want to speak about whatever matters to you, the Support line is available seven days a week 8am to 8pm on 0808 808 0000.