In this episode, Jack Woodhams discusses the importance of male friendships, mental health, and the initiatives he has spearheaded through Menfulness. He shares his personal journey of creating supportive spaces for men, addressing loneliness, and the stigma surrounding mental health conversations. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability, community support, and the role of counselling in suicide prevention.

In this conversation, Jack Woodhams discusses the importance of open conversations about mental health, particularly among men. He emphasises the need for accessible mental health support and the unique approach of Menfulness, a charity that creates comfortable spaces for men to engage in discussions about their mental well-being.

The conversation explores the different ways men communicate, the impact of Menfulness on participants, and the challenges of funding and growth for such initiatives. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the importance of normalising vulnerability and connection in mental health conversations.

Key takeaways:

•Jack Woodhams emphasises the need for male companionship and honesty in parenting.

•The Yorkie Dads initiative was born out of a need for male support groups.

•Mindfulness has grown alongside community events to foster connections among men.

•Loneliness is a significant issue for men, impacting mental health and suicide rates.

•Creating a safe space for men to express vulnerability is crucial.

•Simple tools can facilitate deeper conversations among men.

•Community support plays a vital role in suicide prevention efforts.

•Direct communication about mental health can save lives.

•Normalising discussions about counselling helps reduce stigma.

•Fundraising efforts are driven by those who have benefited from counselling services. Counselling is a preventative measure for mental health.

•Menfulness aims to create fun and engaging support activities.

•Comfortable spaces encourage open conversations among men.

•Men often prefer to communicate shoulder to shoulder rather than face to face.

•The impact of Menfulness is evident in participants' mental health improvements.

•Funding and capacity are challenges for expanding Menfulness.

•Normalising vulnerability can help break down barriers in communication.

•Most people are inherently kind and willing to help.

•Barriers to accessing mental health support still exist.

•Creating community and connection is vital for mental well-being.

You can find out more on www.menfulness.org

One more Day video

https://youtu.be/BJetTUVyl_U?si=o5croubRhYu3aYvH

Menfulness

https://youtu.be/X5T858tE4bU?si=MW0EsjkkJlPa7qe_

Our research

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/152CFgefFq/

Men Talking Revolution

https://youtu.be/5E_AQkbg5NE?si=zE85eAjvWGJF01tU

Menfulness Meets

https://youtu.be/rsgc2APvZUU?si=4pZKPqYpb855f-xI

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Season 21

Menfulness