Dorset campaign to "end the silence" over men's mental health struggles

Businesses, charities and sports clubs in Dorset have teamed up to tackle the stigma around men's mental health.

Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under the age of 45.

The campaign Light On aims to encourage men to talk about mental distress and emotional struggle.

A network of organisations including local businesses, NHS, Public Health Dorset and Bournemouth University have joined forces.

It urges men to go beyond the banter and talk openly about how they are feeling and whether they are coping.

It aims to train champions and ambassadors to spread this message across the whole of Dorset reaching men where they work, exercise, socialise and live.

Andrew Coleman, founder of Light On said: "It is time to put an end to the silent struggle among men because of the taboo and stigma about talking when you’re not coping very well.

"This silence is leading to pain, suffering and suicide and it has to stop"

"This campaign will save people’s lives because it will make it OK for people to have a conversation and ask for help.

"It will transform the way Dorset people, men in particular, deal with mental health and mental health difficulty.

"We want as many people as possible to share our message and to get involved.

"We must create such a loud voice between us that everyone knows how to have a conversation about seeking and receiving help. We want thousands of people to 'turn their light on' with us."

A survey is also being carried out with Bournemouth University to find out how men in Dorset feel about their mental health and what might be stopping them seeking help.

The findings will be used to help the Light On team further develop their campaign.