The silent epidemic of male mental health continues to claim lives at an alarming rate, with men in the UK three to four times more likely to die from mental health-related issues than women.
Men In Mind, a peer-to-peer mental health support group in Aberdeen, aims to address this crisis by providing a safe space for men to discuss their mental health challenges.
According to a recent survey by Priory Group, 77% of men have experienced symptoms of common mental health conditions such as anxiety, stress, or depression.
Despite this, 40% of men have never spoken to anyone about their mental health, with 29% citing embarrassment and 20% pointing to a negative stigma as reasons for their silence.
A survey found that 40% of men reported they would only seek professional help if experiencing severe mental health symptoms.
Men In Mind’s Mission and Impact
Andy Joss, co-founder of Men In Mind, identified a troubling pattern in his day job as a client services manager at Hunter Adams.
Through conversations with business professionals, he discovered that many men in the industry were silently battling personal issues.
Andy Joss said: “Many guys are out there struggling for all different reasons, and you would never know.”
The tragic loss of his friend and neighbour, Shaun, earlier this year served as a powerful catalyst, compelling Joss to take action.
In February, Men In Mind was established alongside fellow co-founder Crystal Green and supported by a dedicated team of facilitators; Paul Green, Danny Collie, Andy McMorton, Steve Forsyth, Callum McGowan and Scott Anderson.
The group gained more popularity than first anticipated, providing a much-needed platform for men to connect and share their experiences.
Since the beginning of its successful launch, Men In Mind has seen an overwhelming response, with hundreds of men attending the group for support.
The group meets weekly at the Cove Rangers Balmoral Football Stadium every Thursday from 6:30 pm to 8 pm.
Through regular meetings, online resources, and partnerships with mental health professionals, Men In Mind seeks to promote mental wellbeing and reduce the stigma associated with men’s mental health.
Joss highlighted the group’s impact: “We knew there was a need for this group, but we didn’t expect it to be as much as it has been.”
Over twenty men attend each week, with ages ranging from early twenties to mid-sixties.
The group provides a supportive space to discuss various life challenges, including mental health concerns, work-related stress, family dynamics, and personal wellbeing.
Joss emphasised the relaxed environment and the optional participation to discuss personal matters, noting that “we’ve never had someone join who hasn’t spoken.”
Collaboration with Cove Rangers
The Cove Rangers Community Foundation has provided a space in the hospitality lounge at the Balmoral Stadium to host the weekly Thursday groups.
The Cove Rangers Community Foundation, a significant initiative to support community engagement and development, was formally launched in April this year.
Jenny Laing, Chief Executive of Cove Rangers Community Foundation, praised the collaboration: “We’re delighted to be working with Men In Mind as part of the foundation because one of our main aims is improving people’s mental and physical wellbeing and tackling social isolation.”
She added that hosting the group in a football stadium helps attract men who might not attend traditional settings.
Social Connections and Community Support
Men In Mind has identified social isolation as a critical factor contributing to mental health issues.
Consequently, the group has transformed into a vibrant social network where members forge friendships and offer mutual support beyond the regular meetings.
“To see the laughter that we’ve had in the group, it’s been incredible. Some guys have become friends with each other and now socialise outside the group,” Joss said.
Due to the popularity of the peer-to-peer group, Men In Mind has created a new weekly group on Fridays from 6:30 pm to 9 pm at Inchgarth Community Centre.
This gathering serves as a social hub where men can come together, have a laugh, and enjoy various games such as darts, pool, and snooker.
The group is optimistic that more men will feel encouraged to join and participate in Thursday’s group.
The Broader Impact
Laing highlighted the importance of such groups in addressing the higher rates of mental health challenges among men: ‘Often you feel as though you’re alone, and coming together in a group like this allows people to realise that others are going through similar things
She praised Men In Mind for its positive impact: “They have done hugely well in a short time, and from the feedback they are getting, it’s clear that this group has had a positive impact, and that can only be a good thing.”
On Saturday, July 27th, Men In Mind is hosting a family-friendly walk-and-talk event at Aberdeen Beach.
This gathering allows those interested to meet the team and learn more about their support services whilst enjoying a coffee and chat with existing group members.
Men In Mind is making significant strides in supporting men’s mental health in Aberdeen.
By providing a supportive environment and fostering social connections, the group helps men navigate their mental health challenges and reduces the stigma associated with seeking help.
For further information, Men In Mind can be reached through the following platforms:
Facebook: meninmind
Instagram: meninmindaberdeen
LinkedIn: meninmind
Email: meninmindaberdeen@gmail.com
