Men’s Mental Health
Stepladder is an Open Mental Health project run by Second Step that aims to reduce the stigma that men feel when talking about or asking for help with their mental health, by ensuring they know where to go in Somerset for wellbeing support when they need it.
Stepladder works with communities, groups and organisations across Somerset to find new ways for men to connect, support each other and get help when they need it.
To find out more visit second-step.co.uk or email stepladder@second-step.co.uk.
Stepladder
Listen to Nick, from our partner Second Step, talk about the Stepladder project in more detail in the video.
If you are worried about your mental health please get in touch with Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276 892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
They are here to listen 24 hours, 7 days a week.
You can also email support@openmentalhealth.org.uk.
Men’s Mental Health Resources
Below are some useful resources that provide more information about and more insight in to men’s mental health.
Films and Videos
- Under the Soil on Amazon takes an unyielding look at the current mental health crisis in British Agriculture.
- Our Silent Emergency documentary. Roman Kemp explores the mental health and suicide crisis affecting young men
- The Full Treatment (6 part series). Developed with CALM, Celebrities talk about their mental wellbeing.
For more resources including talks and online influencers please visit the Second Step website
Somerset Men’s Sheds
Men’s Sheds aim to promote Health and well-being in the community by reducing the feeling of loneliness and isolation encountered, especially by older people.
Somerset Community Connect – Talking Cafes
Find local services, support, advice, and activities. Friendly and informal drop-ins for over 18s.
Somerset Wildlife Trust
Somerset Nature Connections project aims to tackle some of the barriers that prevent people from experiencing the health and well-being benefits of Somerset’s spectacular natural environment.
For more information please visit: Connecting people with Somerset’s wildlife and wild places>>
Carers Support Groups
Somerset Partnership NHS Trust support groups for carers of adults with mental health problems.
Locations, dates and times can be found here>>
Somerset Libraries
Libraries are not just a place to borrow books! Other resources include internet access, printing facilities, books hand-picked for you by library experts, DVDs borrowing, talking books, researching family history via Ancestry and regular events.
Mind in Somerset Recovery and Wellbeing Groups
These sessions are available to anyone over 18 and living in Somerset and provide a relaxed, safe and supportive environment to explore ways to stay well.
More details can be found here >>
Gardening Groups
Free weekly gardening sessions in Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet.
More details can be found here >>
Somerset Health Walks
Walking for well-being can help you to feel good, to have more energy, to sleep better and manage your weight. All walks are free of charge and are led by a team of Volunteer Walk Leaders.
For more information please visit the Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership website >>
Are you having suicidal thoughts?
If you’re finding things overwhelming and you’re thinking about suicide, there are people you will help and people you can turn to, right now.
There are a number of services that can support you:
- You can call Mindline Somerset any time to get support and advice on local services.
- You can arrange an appointment through Mindline Somerset to attend our Crisis Safe Space out-of-hours service. More information about Crisis Safe Space can be found here
- If you need immediate support please dial 999.
The tips below might also help:
- Talk to someone: a friend, a family member, the Samaritans, or your GP.
- Find a safe space: somewhere with no stress and good support
- Avoid drinking alcohol and taking drugs
- Get involved: maybe meet up with a friend or join an exercise group
- Getting to know yourself: so you can recognise your signs of stress, for example, physical symptoms like palpitations, or drinking more alcohol or withdrawing from life.
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are worried about someone close to you please call Mindline Somerset at any time for advice and support. Please get in touch with our team locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692 or email support@openmentalhealth.org.uk. Mindline Live Web Chat is available every day from 8pm-11pm.
If you need immediate urgent help please dial 999.