Childline video highlights men’s mental health

Recent research by Men’s Health Forum shows that over three out of four suicides in the UK are by men – with suicide being the biggest killer for men under 35.

They also found that 12.5% of men in the UK are suffering from at least one common mental health disorder.

Sadly, men are also more likely to use addictive outlets such as alcohol and illegal drugs to cope with the emotions caused by mental illness – as opposed to women, who are more likely to access professional psychological help. The fact is, so many men are ending their lives instead of seeking help – and this is often because they don’t know how to get support.

They fear that speaking about their negative feelings would emasculate them, whether that be to a friend, a loved one or a professional. The National Counselling Society’s Accredited Register of Counsellors gives access to qualified and experienced counsellors who can help.

And this doesn’t just account for men, it affects boys, too. Mental illness doesn’t care whether you’re rich, poor, old or young, it’ll take who it can, and we need to be doing all we can to make sure people know that it’s okay to talk about it.

Childline have released a chilling video in which a young boy is struggling with suicidal thoughts and depression.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVDzh04aHtI