With the majority of the world recognising June as the month to raise awareness around Men’s mental health issues, the UK is the only country to nominate November as the month of recognition.
The UK month of awareness falls inline with the Movember campaign, which we can credit for the notably hairier upper lips being sported by many men worldwide this month and more significantly for funding of over 1300 men’s health projects in the last 20 years.
Why are we talking about men’s mental health this month?
This month we place the spotlight on men’s mental health as men in particular feel the stigma around reaching out to say “I’m not Okay”. It may be the weight of expectation to “be strong” that leads men to be more likely to keep their cards close to their chest when it comes to their feelings, with the consequences of doing so being evident in poor mental health outcomes for men.
Whilst it is true that women are more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition than men, this may be because men are less likely to reach out for help in the first place. In 2023 Samaritans reported that around 75% of deaths by suicide will be male with men also twice as likely to die from causes specific to alcohol use or dependency (ONS 2022).
What to do if you’re struggling with your mental health…
It’s worth first noting that if you or someone you know is in a crisis situation it’s important to reach out to crisis hotlines such as the Samaritans and visit a medical professional as soon as possible.
If however, the situation is not one of immediate emergency need, there are a number of measures you can implement which can positively impact your mental health. The NHS has published 5 Steps to Mental Well-being which include the following:
· Connect with other people – in recovery we often hear “connection is the opposite of addiction” and this principle can be applied to improving mental health issues also. Connecting with others with relatable experience can be fulfilling and give us a feeling a purpose or being needed.
· Be physically active – Physical activity can improve confidence, reduce stress, improve sleep quality. Spending time outdoors can also be of great benefit to our mental health.
· Learn new skills – Learning new skills can be a fulfilling experience and could be considered a practice in mindfulness. In particular, tasks which require the mind’s full focus for a period will be greatly beneficial.
· Enjoying the present moment – On the topic of mindfulness, it is our next suggestion. Mindful practice involves being aware of the present moment, there are a plethora of resources available online which will allow you to pick up some mindful techniques to use throughout your day.
· Help others – maybe the least obvious but most impactful way of drawing attention away from our own problems for a period is to focus energy on doing something that helps other people… just ask our volunteers!
Where can I go in Kent for help?
Thanks in part to the fantastic work done by those at the Movember campaign and other movements in recent history, men’s mental health is coming into the focus of the many and projects and initiatives in support are popping up all over the place.
Looking specifically at Kent, we were pleased to see some of the great work already being done in our area.
Support is available whether that be via meetings offering the opportunity to connect with others with similar experience or other projects from sporting activities to learning new skills. Find one near you below:
· Folkestone fellas – A volunteer run community group actively seeking to combat the loneliness epidemic through walks and other activities. Free to join on WhatsApp or face to face
· ManUp? – Offering free online group therapy sessions led by qualified psychotherapists as well as talks around mental health
· Father Lessons – Face to Face men’s support group based in Tunbridge Wells. The group can cater for up to 8 people at a time. Whilst this group is not free to join they are happy to discuss payment options and affordability.
· North Kent Mind - A peer-led support group aimed at providing a warm and safe space for men to discuss topic-based subjects around mental health. Self-referral can be made via the link
· MenTalk Health – Support group meeting every Tuesday between 1930 – 2100 at Holy Trinity Church in Sittingbourne. Free to attend for all… just turn up!
· The Men’s Mind Project – Seeking to actively address the stigma around men’s mental health the project hosts a support group every Monday
· Dadspace – Hosting events across Kent which centre around creating a community of fathers and a space to talk, listen & share experiences. Upcoming events can be found here
· MenTalk – The initiative offers a space in Sheerness for men to meet for tea, coffee & biscuits and share any troubles or frustrations they need to get off their chest. Regular meetings held on Fridays.
· Men’s Sheds - Men’s Sheds encourage people to come together to make, repair and repurpose, supporting projects in their local communities. Improving wellbeing, reducing loneliness and combatting social isolation. Find a shed here
· Be Courageous - A sanctuary of hope and strength dedicated to supporting individuals grappling with anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, alcoholism, and suicidal thoughts. Meetings on Wednesdays in Deal!
· Head In The Game (HITG) – Mental wellbeing sports sessions specifically targeting reduction in suicides. Register for upcoming sessions here
This list demonstrates that the support is readily available, reaching out is just the first and perhaps most difficult step.
If you’re unsure as to what project or initiative might best suit you, a friend or loved one then do feel free to contact us for an informal chat. You can contact us via social media or via our contact us page here
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