In 2025, 524 people died by suicide in Lithuania – 421 men and 103 women. In Vilnius city, the statistics reach as many as 61 people, among whom are 54 men and 7 women. This difference reveals not only painful statistics but also the need to better understand why some men still find it difficult to talk about their experiences and seek help.
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Alcohol and psychoactive substance addictions, work-related stress, and burnout are the most common problems associated with men’s mental health difficulties, according to data from the 2026 “Spinter” study. The use of psychoactive substances can be not only a cause of difficulties but also a consequence or a way to try to cope with them.
“The topic of suicides is closely related to the problem of addictions. During the Soviet era, there was even a mindset formed that problems could be ‘poured out’ in alcohol. At the same time, men in society have long been held to high expectations – they are expected to be strong, earn more, take care of the family, and cope with difficulties on their own. All this can lead to a person hiding their difficulties and seeking help too late,” says Goda Nausėdaitė, coordinator of the Vilnius city suicide prevention algorithm.
These societal expectations can influence how men react to their emotional difficulties and when they decide to speak about them.
“When talking about men’s suicide prevention, it is important to see not only the statistics numbers. Behind them are people and their life stories. Sometimes a person tries to manage alone for a long time, does not share with loved ones that they are struggling, and does not seek help. Therefore, it is important to talk not only about where a person can turn for help but also about what might prevent them from taking the first step,” says Simona Bieliūnė, deputy mayor of Vilnius city municipality.
Sometimes a person tries to manage alone for a long time, does not share with loved ones that they are struggling, and does not seek help. Therefore, it is important to talk not only about where a person can turn for help but also about what might prevent them from taking the first step.
What lies behind the statistics? Answers sought in discussion
On August 29, at the discussion festival “Būtent!”, the discussion “Why do men die by suicide more often but seek help less frequently?” explored the study results and the topic of men’s mental health in more detail.
The discussion highlighted that attitudes toward emotions and asking for help begin to form in childhood. When a boy learns that crying is shameful, feelings must be hidden, and difficulties overcome alone, over time, the belief may develop that one should not ask for help even when it is truly needed.
Contributing to this is the image of a man created in society – the expectation to be strong, independent, achieve a lot, and not show vulnerability can become an obstacle to talking about one’s well-being.
“Suicide tendencies usually do not arise from a single event – they are the result of long suffering and accumulating difficulties. Therefore, it is important to look at how a person learns to manage their feelings and difficulties well before facing a crisis,” says Dr. Jokūbas Gužas, psychologist and lecturer at Vilnius University.
Seeking help is influenced not only by the individual
For a person who tries to overcome difficulties alone for a long time, saying “I am struggling” can be difficult. Therefore, it is important not only to encourage seeking help but also to create an environment where it is safe to talk about one’s well-being. When discussing seeking help, it is important to look not only at what the person can do but also at the environment in which they live, work, and socialize.
The study data also confirm that the environment plays a significant role. Half of Vilnius residents believe that it is important to ensure privacy when men seek help. Almost as many respondents say that family or friends’ support can encourage taking this step.
Examples of other men are also important. Nearly 4 out of 10 Vilnius residents believe that public men talking about their experience seeking help could encourage others as well. About a third of respondents would like more clear information about the benefits of psychological help, more services tailored to men, and a more favorable attitude from workplaces and colleagues toward seeking help.
Examples of other men are also important. Nearly 4 out of 10 Vilnius residents believe that public men talking about their experience seeking help could encourage others as well.
This shows that men’s suicide prevention is not solely an individual’s responsibility. It is also important what kind of reaction they receive when they say they are struggling.
“Don’t carry it all alone” – about why it is important not to keep difficulties inside
From September 7 to 10, “Vilnius sveikiau” will run the social campaign “Don’t carry it all alone.” During it, men from different fields will invite more open conversations about emotional difficulties, noticing the person next to you, and seeking help if needed.
The campaign faces are former basketball player Rimantas Kaukėnas, artist Algis Kriščiūnas, Vilnius “Rytas” player Gytis Radzevičius, and Vilnius “Žalgiris” player Klaudijus Upstas. Their involvement aims to show that difficulties are part of life, so they should not be hidden or tried to be overcome alone.
The main message of the campaign is that there is a way out and help is available. For one, an open conversation with a friend or family member can help; for another, professional help; for yet another, sports, hobbies, or other activities. The most important thing is not to remain alone with difficulties and to find a way that suits you to solve them.
Dr. Jokūbas Gužas emphasizes that it is important not to be afraid to seek help when needed because often fear and various beliefs prevent doing so. According to him, one harmful myth is the belief that we must solve everything ourselves and alone. He points out that strength lies not in the ability to endure everything independently but in the courage to admit that sometimes help is needed and to allow others to take care of us.
The campaign message will reach Vilnius residents throughout September – on radio shows, sports matches, social networks, and outdoor screens.
If it is hard – you don’t have to seek help alone
“Vilnius sveikiau” reminds that Vilnius residents who need professional psychological help can use free individual psychologist consultations. Long-term emotional support is also provided in mutual aid groups for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide.
More information about emotional support and psychological help options in Vilnius city can be found on the “Vilnius sveikiau” website.
Vilnius residents and specialists who lack information about help options in a suicide crisis can also contact Goda Nausėdaitė, coordinator of the Vilnius suicide prevention algorithm, by phone +370 649 28700 or email goda.nausedaite@vvsb.lt.
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