A heart-rending video has been launched by a York charity urging men to reach out and talk to others if they are struggling.
‘One More Day’ is a film by Menfulness released to mark International Men’s Day today (Sunday, 19 November).
It shows a devastated father talking to his son who took his life. ‘One More Day’ is a poem written by Menfulness member Matt Kelly, in memory of all those lost to suicide.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “Menfulness are breaking the stigmas associated with men’s mental health and reducing male suicide.
“We do this by providing a safe, inclusive online social community and by hosting a large number of events and activities such as a dads/daughters hair school, a retro games night, a breakfast club, five-a-side football, talk groups and much more.
“The video encourages people to use their voice if they are struggling, and to have the courage to reach out for help.
“Our aim is for the video and it’s message to receive as much exposure as possible to further break the stigma.”
Menfulness contacts
You can find out more about Menfulness – and help their work by making a donation – via their various channels here.
The video points out that suicide is the largest cause of death in men under the age of 50 in the UK.
Menfulness is run by a team of five volunteer trustees. The charity has engaged with thousands of men in the region.
The spokesperson said: “From the experience of our members, often men will contact their GPs for further help and can be met with lengthy waiting lists for treatment and support.
“Via our unique arrangement with our counselling partner Serendipity Counselling, we can provide quick referrals and potentially life-changing free counselling sessions, funded by us, with service users often receiving help within 24 hours of referral.
“We are succeeding in removing the associated stigmas and barriers to men receiving the help they may need. We have just put our 900th referral through the service.”