The aim of this week focusing on Men's issues is to raise the awareness and support the health and wellbeing of the men in your workplace or local community.
The startling fact is that on average five men a day are taking their own lives. Why is it that men are happy to talk about players match fitness but less likely to talk about their own health or mental well-being?
Over recent years there has been an increase in the amount of support services for men. It’s been a recognised struggle in getting men to make the step in using these services but one that is changing as we negotiate a way through the barriers of things unsaid and into the indirect problem solving of men.
This week we take the opportunity to look at some of the services out there to assist men.
The MensLine is a professional telephone and online support and information service for Australian men. Available 24/7 on 1300 789 978. It features videos, online counselling and forums to help assist men in a range of issues.
Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds, along with assistance in promoting young peoples’ wellbeing. This year Headspace has been focusing on what goes unsaid between young men and their dads. Especially when it comes to mental health issues. The headspace Fathers campaign aims to open up the conversation between fathers and sons and raise awareness about the support services available.
Beyond Blue - deals with depression and anxiety. It also includes “Dadvice” help for new fathers. Babies change everything, and this site brings home the issues a bloke faces being a new Dad with personal video diaries and humorous videos of comedian dads. Even if your not a dad its a very good laugh and eye opener to the world of fatherhood.
The Men’s Shed - The rise and success of the men’s shed not only passes on real life skills to younger men and women but it’s a way of talking over problems with a few mates while doing something constructive.