Whilst the entirety of November is dedicated to highlighting the struggles men face (‘Movember’), today holds specific importance – November 19 marks Men’s Mental Health Day.
Suicide is the biggest killer of men under the age of 50 in the UK, 40% of men having admitted to never speaking to anyone about their mental health before.
Mollie Grant, from the Liverpool Light mental health charity, said: “I think it’s made light of a lot. It is changing, slowly, but there’s still those phrases like ‘be a man’.
“They’re still used so widely, just in passing. I think that perpetuates that idea that men can’t be vulnerable, which is really quite sad.”
Statistics from the charity Mind shows that there are steady improvements regarding men seeking help. They found that men are now three times as likely to see a therapist when feeling low, in comparison to 2009.
When asked what message needs to be shared for men’s mental health day, Ryan Wilkinson, also from Liverpool Light, said: “I think it’s just mainly attempting to reduce the stigma and encouraging people to speak about how they feel.
“Also raising awareness of charities like us, Sean’s Place, and others who are there to help. Just making people aware that there are places you can go to.”
Mollie agreed: “It’s assumed that because you’re a man you can cope better, which isn’t the case. Men suffer with their mental health just as much as women do but it’s very hush hush. But it’s so important to check up on your mates.”
The theme of mental health should ultimately be a topic of conversation all year round, not just one month. It is vital that to reduce stigma, encouragement for speaking out should be praised.
The Liverpool Light offers drop-in services. These occur seven days a week, for anyone who may be struggling. You can find more on their website here.
- When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at [email protected], or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
