A concerted effort by a public health team in East Sussex is underway to address the mental well-being of men residing in seaside communities.
Health professionals are organizing regular gatherings aimed at encouraging men to engage in open dialogue about their mental health challenges.
This initiative is particularly focused on men in Hastings and St Leonards, prompted by a 2021 report commissioned for the Chief Medical Officer, which underscored the mental health issues prevalent in coastal areas.
According to the public health team, the suicide rate among men aged 30-59 in the county has exceeded the national average for several years.
Darrell Gale, Director of Public Health in East Sussex, emphasized the heightened risk of isolation and loneliness faced by residents in coastal towns like Hastings.
A report compiled by the health authorities acknowledged that deteriorating mental health among men not only affects individuals but also has significant repercussions on their employability and the local economy.
Promoting Healthy Masculinity
Travis Mains-Marten, a recovering alcoholic and advocate for mental health, stressed the importance of candid conversations about mental well-being.
He emphasized the need to create an environment where men feel comfortable expressing their struggles, stating, “The simplest way to connect is through open and honest conversation.”
Furthermore, Mains-Marten highlighted the necessity of normalizing vulnerability among men, asserting that it’s crucial to convey that it’s “ok to not be ok” during discussions.
Events organized in East Sussex have provided opportunities for local men to explore various topics, including healthy masculinity and reconnecting with nature.
Participants have also been engaged in activities aimed at promoting physical activity and enhancing mental health.
