When we hear about male suicide, we often hear one common refrain: men need to talk. While opening up is important, this narrative oversimplifies a much more complex issue. According to the work of leading suicide researchers like Rory O'Connor and Dr. Susie Bennett at the University of Glasgow, Suicide Research Lab, male suicide involves a web of psychological and societal factors that go far beyond silence.
The Suicidal Mind: How Entrapment Feels Like the Only Option
Rory O'Connor’s research highlights that suicidal thoughts don’t appear out of nowhere. They are often driven by a psychological state known as entrapment. Entrapment occurs when a person feels trapped by their circumstances—financial struggles, failing relationships, or even chronic feelings of inadequacy—and believes there is no escape. For men, these feelings can be particularly intense due to societal pressures to "keep it together."
Dr. Susie Bennett’s studies build on this by identifying how men may be more prone to feeling trapped because they view their worth in terms of external achievements: career success, financial stability, or providing for a family. When these aspects of life falter, men are more likely to internalise their perceived failure, spiralling into a sense of defeat. At this point, suicidal thoughts can feel like the only way out.
The "Perfect Storm" of Male Suicide
Suicide doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a process. O’Connor offers a deeper look into the stages men go through as they progress from suicidal thoughts to taking action.
First, certain life experiences make men more vulnerable. These might include childhood trauma, mental health struggles, or being socially isolated for long periods - factors which lay the groundwork and increases a man’s risk over time.
Next comes the feeling of being trapped. This can happen when a man is overwhelmed by specific life challenges—whether it’s losing a job, going through a painful breakup, or feeling like he’s failing in some area of life. Many men experience a deep sense of shame and defeat in these times, thinking there's no way out.
Finally, some men move from feeling hopeless to planning to end their lives. At this point, they not only feel motivated to escape their pain but may also have the means to do it. Without strong support networks or ways to cope, the risk of suicide increases.
This progression shows us that men don’t just need to talk more—they need help at each stage before they reach the point of no return. Recognising these warning signs early can make all the difference.
How Can We Intervene?
According to Dr. Bennett, one key to reducing male suicide lies in understanding these psychological processes early. She advocates for proactive mental health screenings that can identify feelings of defeat and entrapment before they escalate.
Therapy can help men recognise these feelings as temporary and navigable rather than permanent and an impossible mountain to climb.
Here’s when seeking support could save a life:
If you or someone you know has been feeling trapped—whether by financial strain, relationship problems, or personal failures—these aren’t just “bad days.” They could be early signs of entrapment and defeat.
If you’re facing intense feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy, therapy can provide new tools to manage these emotions before they turn into something more dangerous.
If you notice signs of withdrawal or increased risk-taking, these could be warning signs that intervention is critical.
Don’t Wait Until It's Too Late
Therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about learning to reshape destructive thinking patterns and regain control of your life. By understanding and addressing the factors that drive male suicide, we can begin to prevent it before the final stage of hopelessness is reached.
If you or a loved one is feeling overwhelmed, seek help now. Don’t wait for the trap to close.
If you want to find out more about the issue of Male Suicide head over to the blogs on my website, and follow Dr Susie Bennett on Instagram: @male_suicide_research
If you would like to explore the possibility of working with me, you can book a free 30 minute initial chat with me here.
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