Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Elton: You guys are not alone and you’re loved
Singer’s mental health message
SIR Elton John today urges men to open up about their mental health struggles after an “unprecedented” year that has left millions struggling to cope.
The impact of coronavirus, including isolation and job insecurity, has taken a huge toll.
But when it comes to dealing with anxiety, depression or stress, many men are reluctant to turn to family, friends or professionals for help.
Now Sir Elton, 73, has joined MAN Magazine’s effort to tackle the stigma around mental health.
The singer, who has famously battled his own demons, said: “You are not alone and you are loved.
“This has been an unprecedented year but I want you to know that it is OK to admit you are struggling and need some help.”
Footballer Harry Kane and pundit Jamie Redknapp also urged men to seek help if they are struggling.
Harr y, 27, said: “There’s no shame in it. We all need help sometimes.”
Jamie, 47, added: “It’s really important that as men we open up. We have to take the time to talk, and to listen.” It comes as a survey reveals 45% of men have struggled psychologically during the pandemic.
The study by anti-stigma group Time to Change also found a lack of face-to-face contact had left 44% feeling they had no one to talk to.
Time to Change is urging people to check in and “ask twice” if they suspect someone is struggling. Director Jo Loughran said: “The world has changed but being a good friend doesn’t have to.” Comedian Romesh Ranganathan echoed their sentiments, saying: “Many men still have i ssues opening up.
“Male suicide and other factors are becoming more known, and men are getting better at talking to each other. But, you need to ask somebody how they are, twice.”
Read this issue of MAN Magazine at www.manmagazineuk. co.uk