Abstract
Past research shows that men experience difficulties seeking help for their mental health, and further research is needed to understand how masculine norms can be a barrier. The aim of the current study was to explore young men's perspectives on social relationships, masculine norms, and help-seeking. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted on interviews with four men aged 19-24 years. The young men specified how masculine norms are all encompassing and act as a barrier to help-seeking that can prolong the pain. Social networks composed of receptive people were perceived to be beneficial but require the 'right' people to be helpful for men experiencing mental health difficulties. The young men also posed ways of breaking free from 'stereotypical' masculinity. Overall, the findings inform how education about men's mental health could encourage the formation of social networks and ways of redefining masculinity that promote help-seeking.