Take time, and ask yourself a question

It is widely recognised that men find it incredibly difficult to discuss personal issues with friends, family and colleagues – but why?

Is it a generational problem, older men find it more difficult to open up or do younger men feel the same?

Through my own experience, I know many men feel that mental health is not an issue and continue with a “man-up” mantra, an outdated statement that could lead to more harm than good.

Others, however, who want to speak up might fear being labelled due to the stigma attached or are concerned about the implications if they take time off. This all contributes to men saying and believing ‘I’m fine’, then a vicious cycle begins.

In our efforts to break the cycle and remove the stigma, we continue to work together to recognise when a colleague, friend or family member may be struggling and offer support or a friendly ear.

However, too often we ignore our own advice and carry on when it comes to offering this support and positive affirmations to ourselves.

As you read this article you might nod in agreement or smile with acknowledgement at this statement, so please take a moment to ask yourself: ‘When was the last time I did this for myself ?

Instead of silencing your inner voice, throwing yourself into work, becoming withdrawn from family and friends or telling yourself to “man-up”, take time to think about how you can help to stop this mental health cycle.

As part of CAN’s support and focus on mental health awareness, all employees, and those working alongside us, are encouraged to break the cycle, break down the barriers and open up.

It’s ok, not to be ok and you’re not alone. You are someone’s son, brother, dad, husband, or best friend. You matter and your mental health matters.

As a company, an industry, and across the globe, we are all learning how to break down the barriers and instil positive change for the future.

For most, life is back to 100mph and it’s difficult to take the time to switch off. So it’s more important than ever to change our own mindsets and others’ perceptions by continuing the conversation. We must keep progressing to reach out and open up.

YOU MATTER: Craig’s advice on mental health.