BBC Radio interview

Peter was briefly interviewed by Alun Newman on BBC Radio Solent about men’s mental health this week. You can catch up on the interview at the BBC Sounds website at 1 hr 40 mins 30 secs.

From Peter…

There was so much more to say!

So let’s unpack the questions a little bit further…

How can we help men open up?
We need to create an environment that not only supports open conversations about mental health, we need to actively promote it. Create time, space and safety to talk and nurture positive connections.

What are some of the things men are struggling with in the workplace?
The stigma and fear that if they share honestly and openly they will be seen as ‘weak’ and unable to do their job, or that they’re feelings will be ‘fobbed off’ as not important.

What signs show that someone is struggling?
It really could be anything which is why it’s important to know what is ‘normal’ for that individual…

• They may be more or less productive
• They may be eating more or less
• Sleeping more or less
• They may become more introverted or extroverted
• More chatty or quieter...

It’s as if their behaviour moves toward one extreme or the other.

Therefore, if their ‘normal’ begins to change, maybe we need to ask if they are ok.