Opening Up: A Guide for Men Ready to Talk About Their Mental Health
Let’s face it – talking about how we feel isn’t always easy, especially for men. Society often teaches us to “man up”, stay quiet, and get on with it. But real strength lies in recognising when something’s not right and having the courage to do something about it.
The truth is, we all have mental health – just like physical health. Sometimes it’s great, sometimes it’s okay, and sometimes it’s not. That’s just part of being human.
If you’ve reached the point where you’re ready to talk, that’s something to be proud of. Below is a practical guide to help you take that first step. Read it through, and when you’re ready, turn it into action. You don’t have to go through it alone.
1. Choose Someone You Trust
Start by thinking about who you feel most comfortable with. This could be:
- A close friend or family member
- A colleague or manager you respect
- A mental health professional
- Someone from HR or a workplace support team
The key is choosing someone you believe will listen without judgement.
2. Start Small and Be Honest
You don’t have to tell your whole story right away. Just starting the conversation is a big deal. Here are some simple ways to begin:
- “I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately.”
- “I’m finding things quite tough at the moment and I think I need to talk to someone.”
- “I’m not sure how to say this, but I’ve been under a lot of stress.”
Being honest even if you’re not sure exactly what’s wrong is a powerful first step.
3. If Talking Feels Too Hard, Try Messaging
If speaking in person feels too much, consider sending a message. Writing things down can help you organise your thoughts and reduce the pressure of a face-to-face conversation.
Here’s an example:
Hi [Name], I’ve been feeling quite stressed recently and it’s been affecting me more than I expected. I’d really appreciate a chance to talk when you have a moment.
This gives the other person a heads-up and opens the door gently.
4. Be Clear About What You Need
Sometimes you just need to be heard. Other times, you might want help or a break. Either way, it’s okay to be clear about what you’re looking for.
You could say:
- “I don’t need advice right now, I just need someone to listen.”
- “I think I might need some time or support to manage things better.”
Being clear helps the other person support you in the right way.
5. Remember: You Deserve Support
Whatever you’re feeling stress, pressure, anxiety you’re not alone. These are normal experiences, and asking for help is not a weakness. You deserve support, understanding, and time to feel better.
Summary
Talking about your mental health takes courage, and recognising that you want to talk is a powerful first step. Choose someone you trust, start small, and don’t be afraid to use a message if that feels easier. Be honest about what you’re going through and clear about what you need. And most importantly, remember that you’re not alone, and you absolutely deserve support.
