Holistic - The more you talk, the easier it gets

This year, Beyond Blue has been encouraging men to check-in with peers online for early mental health support, and focussing on encouraging men to adopt new, healthier habits to improve physical and mental wellbeing.  

Beyond Blue Clinical Spokesperson Dr Luke Martin said men are less likely than women to seek support for mental health issues and there remains a stigma which can stop them seeking support.  

“Many men like to be self-reliant and often try to handle problems on their own and can be reluctant to confide in friends and family about how they are feeling,” Dr Martin said. 

“Unfortunately, this can lead to unhealthy coping behaviours, which can result in problems snowballing. Taking steps to get support early on can really help people feel better sooner and anonymous online forums can provide that safe and less confronting option that some men need to open up.” 

In the digital age, online forums, like Beyond Blue’s Forums, are a valuable platform, providing people with a free, accessible, anonymous, welcoming place to discuss their mental wellbeing with those who understand because they have had or are having similar experiences. 

Beyond Blue Forums are moderated by trained professionals, together with experienced volunteers known as Community Champions, who ensure the Beyond Blue Forums remain a safe and supportive place.

Queensland-based Community Champion, Tim Coates, said: “The forums offer anonymity and discretion, allowing men in particular to express themselves openly without fear of judgment or stigma. 

“In Australia, we’ve been brought up in a culture where men don’t complain, they have traditionally needed to be the strong, stoic ones; and they just want to fix the problems,” he said.  

Tim started using the Beyond Blue forums, before attending counselling.  

“Things started going downhill for me in 2017. I was working from home a lot and was lonely; I had major anxiety and depression, and suicidal ideation,” the 53-year-old said.

“I knew I needed to do something, so I took action and completed Beyond Blue’s Anxiety and Depression test (k10), and the results suggested I reach out to my GP. I called my mum the next day, telling her I was struggling – I needed to start talking to people about how I was feeling; the more you talk, the easier it gets.

“Struggling in silence with mental health issues only intensifies the pain. Asking for help when you're battling mental health issues isn't a sign of weakness; it's one of the bravest things you can do.”

Dr Martin says getting support early means you get well sooner, and stay well.

"Latest research shows that 40 percent of users of the service are men; but we encourage more men to reach out to our Forums.

“We can create a culture where men feel comfortable seeking the support they need to get back on track - no problem is too big or too small to ask for help,” Dr Martin said.

Men can also check-up on their mental health using Beyond Blue’s online checklist, and receive recommendations tailored to their need: beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/k10.

For people who need more immediate support, the Beyond Blue Support Service provides 24/7 free counselling, advice and referrals via phone 1300 22 4636, webchat or email: beyondblue.org.au/get-support.