This November, we’re starting a new campaign called “Men’s Minds Matter” to engage more men in Surrey with the importance of looking after their mental health and emotional wellbeing. The campaign is effectively a big shout out asking for men (aged 16 and over), and people who know men suffering in silence, to get in touch with us so we can support them. But more importantly, we want to hear from men about what they think is missing in terms of mental health provision, what is not making them take action and what more we could do to inspire men to speak up and look after their mental wellbeing.
This initiative comes from looking at our own statistics showing a huge discrepancy amongst the people we support, between male (or identifying as male) and female (or identifying as female) clients, clearly highlighting that men are still not getting the support they need. Added to that are male suicide rates in the UK reportedly hitting a two-decade high earlier this year. This is a worrying situation which we want to remedy tirelessly.
We believe that saying men don’t want to talk about mental health is just not good enough (and maybe an incorrect assumption!). We think more needs to be done to listen to them, respond to their needs and allow them to connect with their identities, emotions and wellbeing. The best way to achieve this is certainly to ask them directly: “what do you need from us?” so this is what we’re doing!
So what can YOU do to help us on our mission?
We’ll be sharing further information on our website, newsletters and social media so you’ll be hearing about this campaign a lot more!
To share your thoughts, volunteer yourself or ask any questions about Men’s Minds Matter, please contact our Communications Lead, Connie Ridout at connie@maryfrancrestrust.org.uk or call 01372 375400 and leave a voicemail for Connie with your name and details.
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