Men’s Mental Health
Stepladder is an Open Mental Health project run by Second Step that aims to reduce the stigma that men feel when talking about or asking for help with their mental health, by ensuring they know where to go in Somerset for wellbeing support when they need it.
Stepladder works with communities, groups and organisations across Somerset to find new ways for men to connect, support each other and get help when they need it.
To find out more visit second-step.co.uk or email stepladder@second-step.co.uk.
Stepladder
Listen to Nick, from our partner Second Step, talk about the Stepladder project in more detail in the video.
If you are worried about your mental health please get in touch with Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276 892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
They are here to listen 24 hours, 7 days a week.
You can also email support@openmentalhealth.org.uk.
Local activities and groups
There are several groups across Somerset that can offer support with your mental health. Below are groups and activities across Somerset:
Somerset Men’s Sheds
Men’s Sheds aim to promote Health and Wellbeing in the community by reducing the feeling of loneliness and isolation encountered, especially by older people. Locations, opening hours and contact details can be found here.
Somerset Health Walks
Walking for wellbeing can help you to feel good, to have more energy, to sleep better and to manage your weight. All walks are free of charge and are led by a team of Volunteer Walk Leaders.
More information please visit the Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership website
Somerset Community Connect – Talking Cafes
Find local services, support, advice, and activities. Friendly and informal drop-ins for over 18s. Times and locations can be found here.
For information about additional organisations supporting men’s mental health please visit our partner, Second Steps’ website
Men’s Mental Health Resources
Below are some useful resources that provide more information about and more insight in to men’s mental health.
Books
There are a number of books that focus on men’s mental health. For a full list of recommended books click here
Films and Videos
- Under the Soil on Amazon takes an unyielding look at the current mental health crisis in British Agriculture.
- Our silent emergency documentary. Roman Kemp explores the mental health and suicide crisis affecting young men
- The Full Treatment (6 part series). Developed with CALM, Celebrities talk about their mental wellbeing.
For more resources including talks and online influencers please visit the Second Step website
Men’s Mental Health Groups
Somerset Wildlife Trust
Connecting people with Somerset’s wildlife and wild places. Somerset Nature Connections project aims tackle some of the barriers that prevent people experiencing the health and wellbeing benefits of Somerset’s spectacular natural environment.
Carers support groups
Somerset Partnership NHS Trust support groups for carers of adults with mental health problems. Locations, dates and times can be found here
Somerset Libraries
Reopening after lockdown and not just a place to borrow books! Other resources include internet access, printing facilities, books hand-picked for you by library experts, DVDs borrowing, talking books, researching family history via Ancestry and regular events.
Mendip Recovery and Wellbeing Groups
These online sessions are available to anyone over 18 and living in Mendip Somerset and provide a relaxed, safe and supportive environment to explore ways to stay well. More details can be found here
Well Grounded
Free weekly gardening sessions in Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet. More details can be found here
Are you having suicidal thoughts?
If you’re finding things overwhelming and you’re thinking about suicide, there are people you will help and people you can turn to, right now.
These are very difficult times and it’s ok that you want help to get through. There are number of services that can support you.
- You can call Mindline Somersert any time to get support and advice on local services.
- You can arrange an appointment through Mindline Somerset to attend our Crisis Safe Space out-of-hours service. More information about Crisis Safe Space can be found here
- If you need immediate support please dial 999.
The below tips might also help:
- Talk to someone: a friend, a family member, the Samaritans, your GP.
- Find a safe space: somewhere with no stress and good support
- Avoid drinking alcohol and taking drugs
- Get involved: maybe meet up with a friend or join an exercise group
- Getting to know yourself: so you can recognise your signs of stress, for example, physical symptoms like palpitations, or drinking more alcohol or withdrawing from life.
For more information about men’s mental health and the Stepladder project can be found on our partner, Second Steps’ website here
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are worried about someone close to you please call Mindline Somerset any time for advice and support. Please get in touch with our team locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692 or email support@openmentalhealth.org.uk.
If you need immediate urgent help please dial 999.