Essex Mental Health Support Groups for Men
We are losing too many of our men to suicide – globally 3:1 (men to women). Our Essex men and lads are literally dying of embarrassment – too fearful, ashamed or proud to ask for help from their GP, friends, family or colleagues.
In Essex, we have a number of fantastic support groups that offer an opportunity to talk, walk or connect in a safe, caring space. If you know someone, or maybe you are finding it hard to talk about your feelings why not reach out to one of these groups.
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts and need urgent mental health support, seek professional support:
- GP and ask for an emergency appointment
- Local NHS 111 service (Option 2)
- Samaritans 116 123 or email jo@samaritans
- Papyrus Suicide Prevention – 0800 068 4141
SHOUT Text support service 85258 Shout: The UK’s free, confidential, 24/7 mental health text service | Shout 85258
Shout is the UK’s first and only 24/7 text service for anyone struggling with their mental health. Text ‘Shout’ to 85258 for free, confidential support anytime, anywhere
North East Essex Sanctuary
We offer practical and emotional support, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Whether you would like to visit one of our Welcome Cafes, access peer support or you need urgent care, we’re here to help. You can refer yourself to our service whenever you need support.
Just reach out to us by phone, email, or through our website, and we’ll be there to help.
Our process is simple, ensuring you can get the help you need quickly https://neesanctuary.co.uk/get-support/
Essex County Council Men4MentalHealth – Courses for men
A course for men aged 16-65 living in Essex (excl Southend and Thurrock).
The 6 week course (face to face or virtual) will help you to:
- make healthy choices to improve your wellbeing
- Learn more about sleep, diet and exercise
- Learn coping strategies to manage sleep, anxiety and depression
- Explore how physical and mental health are connected
- Make links with supportive services in your community
The Adult Health and Mental Wellbeing Team
Contact us either by calling: 03330 322 958 (9am to 5pm, Mon to Fri)
Or email us at:mh.wellbeingteam@essex.gov.uk
Mates in Mind
As part of their holistic approach of mental health support to construction, transport and related industries, Mates in Mind have now introduced a new service call “Be a Mate Text Service”
https://www.matesinmind.org/training-and-resources/be-a-mate-text-service
Andy’s Man Club – #ITSOKAYTOTALK
A men’s mental health charity providing free-to-attend (no referral needed), talking groups for men and challenges the stigmas around Male Mental Health. There are over 170 groups in the UK now To find your local group please go to www.andysmanclub.co.uk.
Healthwatch Essex – Fellas Forum
Craig Tyler Trust
We are committed to serving individuals and their families who need help coping with mental ill health. Our drop in centre welcomes everyone who needs support no matter what the problem is, nothing is insignificant. We are that friendly face for people to chat to us without any judgement.
https://www.thecraigtylertrust.co.uk/
Walk&Talk4Men “When life gets tough, we’re here to listen”
A local support group that gets together a couple of times a month for a stroll around a country park whilst having a chat in a safe place without judgement! It gives men the opportunity to offload, get things off our chest and talk about how they are feeling rather than bottling it up and suffering in silence.
Mental fitness is just as important as our physical fitness. Men in general find it difficult to open up and talk about their feelings. They often see it as a weakness, they feel they always need to be strong, tough and macho. At Walk&Talk4Men they want to encourage men that it’s okay to talk and that nobody is alone. Walk&Talk4Men
Chat1st – Chatty Walks Brentwood – “What’s the bravest thing you ever said” asked the boy “Help,” said the Horse
Free supported walks for mental wellbeing. Every Tuesday at 10 am at the Brentwood Centre Car Park. for more details contact: chat1stwellbeing@gmail.com
Chat1st also offer a range of activities for adults and young people. For more information
Gam Harm
If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s gambling, there is support available. https://gamblingharm.com/
Men Shed Network
It is a community space for men to get together and take part in practical activities such as woodworking, crafts and gardening. A larger version of the typical men’s garden shed , they offer:
- A space for people to learn new skills and share existing ones
- Make new friends over a shared interest, with a welcoming community feel.
Basildon Borough, Braintree District, Castlepoint Borough, Chelmsford City, Harlow District, Maldon District, Rochford District, Uttlesford District
Livewell – Mental Health Support for men
For further support available in Essex
Healthwatch Essex lived experience video
Why not watch the video produced by Healthwatch – Shawn Leek, shared his lived experience of mental health challenges, and what support helped him in his recovery journey. (NB – please note there is reference to suicide in this video)
Let’s Talk Suicide
Let’s Talk Suicide – Zero Suicide Alliance Training and support for mental health and addiction, Apps and employer toolkits: https://letstalkaboutsuicide.co.uk/alcoholaddiction/
Published: 21 July 2022
