More work needed to tackle stigma around men's mental health, says charity
Warning comes ahead of Movember, the month dedicated to raising awareness of men's wellbeing
A mental health charity in the West Midlands has said progress is being made, but more work needs to be done to break down the stigma around men's mental health.
It comes ahead of Movember, a campaign which runs through November to raise awareness of men's wellbeing.
Around 75% of deaths to suicide in the UK are men. Figures from the Office for National Statistics show in 2023, males aged 45-49 years were found to have the highest suicide rate.
Stu Bratt, is an armed forces veteran and founder of Tough Enough to Care, which runs support groups in Kingswinford and Halesowen.
He founded the charity in 2019 after losing two friends to suicide.
Stu told us: "There is more of an issue with men's mental health because generationally we've been told that men should be the strong and silent type. Put up and shut up, put your big boy pants on and crack on.
"I think it's more the fear of stigma rather than the stigma itself, because once somebody does reach out for support it's very rare that they're met with anything other than support and positivity.
"More men are reaching out, but I think that is also because in some areas it is becoming easier and more comfortable for them to reach out and ask for support.
"It's improving, and the stats make it look like it's getting worse at the same time, but if people are talking then it means we are moving in the right direction."
Where to get help
If you, or someone you know is suffering with their mental health, or experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can speak to your GP. If someone's life is in danger - call 999 immediately.
You can also find help and advice from these services:
Hub of Hope - https://hubofhope.co.uk
Samaritans – Call 116123 - https://www.samaritans.org
Mind - 0300 123 3393 - https://www.mind.org.uk
Tough Enough to Care - https://toughenoughtocare.help/