The Crisis Facing Young Men: Education, Mental Health, and the “Men Are Not Needed” Narrative
By Ana Cruz - Founder & Chief Editor
In this week’s episode of The Ana Cruz Show, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Mark Fincher, Associate Professor of Community College Education and Program Coordinator at Mississippi State University, and founder of International Men's Day of Mississippi. Dr. Fincher shared eye-opening statistics about the growing number of male students who are not enrolling in college—or who are dropping out before completing their degrees. His years of research and firsthand experience working with young men shed light on a troubling and often overlooked trend in higher education.
We explored the root causes behind this decline, including economic pressures, lack of mentorship, shifting cultural narratives, and educational disengagement beginning at an early age. Dr. Fincher emphasized that this issue does not affect men alone; it has ripple effects across families, communities, and society as a whole. When young men struggle academically and professionally, women, children, and entire support systems are impacted. The conversation highlighted how educational disparities contribute to broader social and economic instability.
A particularly powerful part of our discussion focused on men’s mental health. We addressed the correlation between academic failure or disconnection and rising rates of depression, substance abuse, and suicide among men. Dr. Fincher also spoke candidly about his personal journey as a father, sharing how his own son faced serious challenges during adolescence. His perspective is not only academic—it is deeply personal. We also discussed the current masculinity crisis and the cultural messaging suggesting that “men are not needed anymore,” examining how this narrative is shaping the self-worth and identity of young boys today.
Dr. Fincher’s message is clear: as a society, we must continue advocating for inclusion, equality, and the well-being of women—while also ensuring that we do not neglect our boys and young men. Supporting one group should never mean abandoning another. This is a conversation we cannot afford to ignore.
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And please, support Dr. Fincher with her work on Facebook: International Men's Day of Mississippi