Exploring Men's Mental Health
11/6/20241 min read
Male suicide rates in the UK remain alarmingly high, with men accounting for around three-quarters of suicides each year. Men between the ages of 45 and 49 and who live in Northen England are particularly at risk, often impacted by a combination of social, financial, and mental health challenges. Social isolation, stigma around discussing mental health, and traditional pressures to "be strong" often deter men from seeking help.
Addressing male suicide requires a broad approach—providing men with community, encouraging open conversations, and ensuring mental health resources are both accessible and tailored to their unique needs. Interventions like Men’s Sheds provide community spaces where men can meet, work on projects, and engage in practical activities together. By promoting social connection and giving men a safe space to talk informally, these sheds help combat loneliness and reduce mental health struggles.
I was fortunate to work with the incredible writer Dan Lovatt from Divided Culture Co. on his play Toxic, currently touring the north after a sell-out run at the Bolton Octagon. We collectively took a nuanced approach to the campaign, working closely with the brilliant venue team and building relationships in the local area. It was Divided Culture Co’s first visit to Bolton, and it was important for us to build long term and meaningful relationships with local audiences, with one eye on future visits.
You can read an interview with Dan explaining more about the show below.