Statistics released today for International Men’s Day show that we still have a long way to go to support men’s mental health.
Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson attended an event at NSW Parliament House for International Men’s Day on Tuesday November 19 that called for action to reduce the unacceptable toll of mental health and suicide for men.
Hosted by The Men’s Table, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes men getting together for a meal once a month, the event revealed new statistics that show the need is growing.
The organisation’s fifth annual evaluation report shows that there is an epidemic of loneliness among men, with almost half (43 per cent) saying they join up for friendship and connection.
- 36 per cent are struggling with meaning and purpose in their lives,
- 27 per cent are experiencing family breakdown and
- 55 per cent of these men have a lived or living experience of suicide.
Mrs Thompson said she was proud to be adding her voice to encourage men to find ways to express their emotions, anxieties and vulnerabilities in a safe space.
“Unfortunately, the statistics speak for themselves, men are around three times more likely than women to take their lives, and those that do are far less likely to have a mental health diagnosis.
“What this tells us is that men are suffering on their own and not reaching out for help.
“While suicide is a problem across all age groups, the prevalence is especially high for men in their 50s,” said Mrs Thompson.
The Men’s Table CEO, David Pointon, co-founder of the organisation after being a founding member of the first Men’s Table and gaining massive benefits.
“We help men get together once a month for a meal and give organisers guidelines that research shows us leads to the most effective outcomes.
“Men often see vulnerability as weakness, but we find that once one man has the courage to be vulnerable, others soon follow and the benefits to their lives cannot be overstated.”
If you would like more information about The Men’s Table, visit themenstable.org
