Mental health campaigners say men need help — and the courage to ask for it

Men and mental health have long been a topic surrounded by stigma and silence. In a recent panel discussion on CBC’s The Signal, a group of individuals came together to shed light on the crisis among men and mental health.

Jody Williams, a mindset coach, opened up about his personal experience with depression, highlighting how he kept his struggles to himself for years. The fear of sharing his emotions and the belief that nobody would listen led him to wear a mask of everything being alright. Williams emphasized the importance of breaking the silence and seeking help.

Brent Beshara, a military veteran and health advocate, shared his journey of discovering his depression only after retiring from a structured military career. He emphasized the challenge for men to find purpose in life, especially after major life transitions.

Bill Jeffery, a counselor at Lonely Man Project, highlighted the devastating effects of depression on men, robbing them of the simple pleasures of life. He emphasized the importance of addressing the apathy that often accompanies depression and the need for men to seek support.

Audrey Wade, a mental health advocate and parent, shared her heartbreaking story of losing her son to suicide. She emphasized the pressure on men to suppress their emotions and the need for society to change its expectations of masculinity.

The panelists discussed the prevalence of depression and mental health issues among men, with statistics showing that 75% of suicides in 2022 were men. They highlighted the need for targeted programming that addresses the unique needs of men at different stages of life, providing tools for communication, healthy relationships, and emotional regulation.

Moving forward, the panelists emphasized the importance of early intervention and education on mental health, starting with children in preschools and parents. They called for men to show up and seek help, breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental health.

In conclusion, the discussion on men and mental health highlighted the urgent need for societal change, support, and resources to address the crisis among men. By breaking the silence, seeking help, and changing societal expectations, we can work towards a healthier future for men’s mental health.