THE CREATOR of a Bromsgrove group which enables men to get together and speak about their mental health is hoping to spread the word to let more know the support is out there.
Richard Williams started the St Jude’s Lads Chat Centre which meets between 7pm and 9pm every Tuesday at Aston Fields Sports and Social Club and virtually.
As well as the chat, the group has held workshops to teach coping methods and there are plans for outdoor woodland walks and cookery sessions as nature has been shown to have positive benefits to people’s mental wellbeing.
Richard, who has had his own psychological struggles, said statistics showed 70 per cent of all suicides were committed by men.
“I found during my most difficult times not having someone to talk who understood what I was going through compounded my situation.
“Men often don’t speak to family members, loved ones or friends because there is often still a stigma so we want to put men in touch with like-minded guys so they can work through their issues together.
“Mental illness does not discriminate – it affects people of all age, colour, religion and financial status – so this group is aimed at all men.
“St Jude was the Patron Saint of Hope and Lost Causes and anyone with mental health issues will be able to relate to that.
“We want to reach out to all the lads who are suffering which I think could be as high as one in four.
“We have a saying ‘When you’re falling, we’re here to catch you’.”
The group can also signpost members to organisations which can help with other issues they may have, such as domestic abuse.
Richard has already been contacted about setting up groups in eight other areas and the idea long-term is to set up a network.
And said he was in talks with the FA and various high profile celebrities to try and get the scheme endorsed by them.
He added it was also important to reach those who may not be on social media or the Internet.
Anyone wanting to find out more about the St Jude’s Lads Chat Centre can attend the Tuesday sessions, email him at [email protected] or call Richard on 07889 478301.
Alternatively visit the St Jude’s Lad Chat Facebook page.
