To coincide with Movember and to continue with our awareness campaign Men’s Wellbeing Matters, throughout November we’re sharing a series of mental health blogs written by men in order to break stigma and open up healthy and helpful conversations.
“What Matters Most” is our second blog written by a male member of our Creative Writing Group about what truly matters in life and how to help yourself when your mental health is challenged.
“Suicide is the biggest killer of men between the age of 15-45 in this Country. While hanging out at the local psychiatric Unit at 23 years old I could have easily have added to that statistic.
However, a kind hearted nurse named Patrick cut me down and saved my life. Never forget all the people that care for you. Somehow when you’re young, different things seem really important like studying so hard at University that you destroy your mind. Or failing professional exams and bringing on depression when, in fact, you’re so mentally unwell just getting to the exam should have been seen as a success, let alone just missing on passing by less than 2%. Or worrying about that extremely rich girlfriend you have and trying to keep her happy. The new dream job should not cause as much concern as it does. If you are stressed, don’t let people pile things onto you.
The most important thing is breathing. Take a deep breath or as many as needed. Talk to people, don’t bottle it all up. Learn to release pressure. Do some mindfulness meditation. There’s nothing wrong with seeking help. What matters most is you.
Want to blog for us?
If you would like to contribute to this blog series, please email Connie, our Communications Lead at connie@maryfrancestrust.org.uk. The blogs can be poems, song or videos – whatever format you feel most comfortable with!
