How Relationships Shape Men’s Mental Health

Men’s mental health is shaped by their closest relationships—from partners and friends to family and community. But many men are taught to push feelings aside, downplay what they’re going through, or avoid naming it altogether. Instead of acknowledging emotional strain, they often withdraw or isolate without fully recognizing why. What matters most isn’t status or success, but whether those close relationships are supportive and consistent.In this episode, Dr. Guy Winch explores how connection can protect mental health, and how disconnection can make things harder. When emotions go unspoken, feelings don’t disappear. In fact, they often show up in the relationships that matter most.We begin with Bravo Marandure, who shares his experience navigating relationships and where he turned when he needed a sense of community. He’s followed by Dr. Curtis Jasper—a psychologist, author, and speaker specializing in culturally grounded therapy for men—and Dr. Michael E. Addis, Professor of Psychology, life coach, and leading expert in men’s mental health, who offer insight into how connection shapes well-being and what it takes to build stronger, more supportive relationships.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare