Brought to you by PrideVMC Diamond Partner, Zoetis
At Zoetis, well-being is more than a value—it’s a practice. As part of our ongoing BE WELL initiative, we recently hosted a powerful internal event titled “Breaking the Silence: Men Sharing Their Stories,” presented by three inspiring internal leaders across our organization who shared personal stories from their journeys focusing on mental health. This conversation created a safe and supportive space for colleagues to reflect on mental health through the lens of male experiences, vulnerability, and strength.
Why Focus on Men’s Mental Health?
Mental health affects everyone, but men often face unique social pressures that discourage emotional openness and vulnerability. This can lead to isolation, unspoken struggles, and missed opportunities for healing.1
Through honest dialogue and storytelling, this event helped normalize the conversation around men’s mental health—and offered meaningful insights that apply to everyone.
The Power of Storytelling
The session featured deeply personal reflections from Zoetis leaders representing our Sustainability, Quality, & Environmental Health & Safety Department within the Global Manufacturing & Supply Organization who shared their lived experiences with vulnerability, resilience, and navigating mental health as men in leadership. Storytelling helps connect concepts to real world experiences and application and provides a great way for audience members to connect with each other over the subject matter.
Key Takeaways from the Session
Counseling is Not Just for a Crisis
Seeking therapy or counseling doesn’t need to wait for a breaking point. Proactive mental health care provides essential tools and coping strategies before stress escalates into something more serious.
Your Support System Matters
Family, friends, and community—these connections are critical to our mental and emotional well-being. Knowing someone is there to listen can be life changing.
Helping Others Can Help You Too
When you’re struggling, reaching out to support someone else may create mutual healing; a theme that was resonant throughout the panel discussion.
Men May Not Ask—So Reach Out
Men are often less likely to signal when they’re not OK. A simple check-in can go a long way. Sometimes, the best support we can give is just showing up and asking how someone is really doing.
Transforming Pain Into Growth
Grief, trauma, and hardship are part of the human experience—but so is resilience. As one participant noted, “We do not have a choice in experiencing pain, but we can choose to learn from it and grow.” Providing safe spaces for honest conversations, peer-to-peer or within group discussions, can help build resilience in ourselves and others while reinforcing positive connections and support.
“Care But Do Not Carry”
Boundaries are an act of self-preservation, not selfishness. Be intentional about how and where you invest your energy. Avoid people and patterns that drain you.
One Small Act of Self-Care a Day
Self-care isn’t indulgent—it’s essential. Whether it’s taking a walk, journaling, or simply pausing to breathe, small consistent acts signal to others that they’re allowed to do the same.
What You Can Do Next
- Start a Conversation – Reach out to the men in your life and ask how they’re really doing—listen without judgment and offer support as appropriate.
- Practice One Act of Self-Care Today – Not sure where to start? Start with something simple: hug a loved one, go for a walk, share a moment of gratitude, or simply take a break.
- Connect Within your Community – Connect with peers, explore resources, and continue the conversation around mental wellness within your own professional and community networks.
Mental Health Resources
Whether it’s for yourself or supporting a friend, colleague or loved one, there are a variety of resources out there, such as those provided by these non-profits.
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- HeadsUpGuys – A leading online resource for men’s mental health (based in Canada, accessible globally) which provides practical, evidence-based guidance for men facing depression or anxiety, including a self-check quiz to assess symptoms, tips for self-care, and a directory of male-sensitive therapists. Visit www.headsupguys.org for more information.
- National Alliance on Mental Health – The largest grassroots mental health organization in the U.S. dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. The organization offers free support groups, education programs, advocacy and a helpline (1-800-950-NAMI). Visit www.nami.org for more information.
- Men Motivating Men Worldwide – a non-profit organization committed to empowering men and boys through mentorship, mental health support, and leadership development. Their programs focus on nurturing personal growth, enhancing emotional well-being, and promoting community engagement. Visit www.menmotivatingmen.org for more information.
Keep the Momentum Going
Creating a culture of well-being requires each of us to show up—not just for ourselves, but for each other. Let this be a reminder that support, empathy, and healing don’t have to wait for a crisis. At Zoetis, we commit ourselves to this via continuing programs such as this through our Colleague Resource Groups which are open to all colleagues.
- Be Well Pride Month Coffee Chat – A safe space where colleagues will share their personal stories and explore mental health challenges within the LGBTQ+ community.
- Monthly Be Well Workshops – Open to all colleagues and covering topics such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Wellbeing & Peak Performance, Wellbeing Journalling, Overcoming Challenges and more
- Expanded partnership with Elephant in the Room – Including rollout of elephants to 12 additional Zoetis manufacturing sites as a visible sign of our support for colleague mental health and wellbeing.
References:
- Grant, James. Men and Mental Health: Stigma and the Hidden Signs. MIBlueDaily newsletter. Accessed May 2, 2025 at www.bcbsm.mibluedaily.com/stories/mental-health/men-and-mental-health-stigma-and-the-hidden-signs
