First Post: A New Journey

Author

Terrence Tomkinson
May 13, 2024

Welcome to Men's Mental Health Monday! We are thrilled to have you join us on this important journey towards promoting and prioritizing men's mental well-being. This platform has been created with the aim of fostering open conversations, providing support, and raising awareness about the unique challenges that men face when it comes to mental health. Each Monday, we will delve into various topics, share personal stories, and offer valuable resources to help break the stigma surrounding men's mental health. Together, let's create a safe and inclusive space where men can find solace, strength, and encouragement to prioritize their mental well-being.

Our Mission:  The Man in the Mirror newsletter is to destigmatize men's mental health and promote well-being. Through open conversations, support, and resources, we empower men to prioritize mental health without judgment. Our newsletter fosters a safe space for inspiration, guidance, and community, breaking down barriers and advocating for a culture that values every man's mental well-being.

HEADLINE STORY:
Shia Labeouf: His Emotional Journey to Sobriety

QUICK TIPS:


The 5-Minute Reset: Your Quick Path to Calm and Clarity
Life gets busy, our minds get scattered, and sometimes we just need to hit the pause button. That's where the 5-Minute Reset comes in. Think of it as a mental pit stop – a few simple techniques designed to bring you back to the present moment, ease stress, and refocus your energy.

This Week's Reset: Box Breathing

Box breathing is a Navy SEAL-approved stress-busting technique that's easy to learn and effective in those 'I need calm NOW' moments expand more Here's how:

  1. Find a quiet spot: Sit comfortably, either on a chair or the floor.

  2. Close your eyes (optional): This helps you focus inward exclamation

  3. The Box Pattern:

    • Inhale slowly through your nose, counting to 4.expand_more

    • Hold your breath for a count of 4.

    • Exhale fully through your mouth, counting to 4.

    • Hold your breath again for a count of 4.

  4. Repeat: Do this for 5 minutes, focusing on the counting and the sensation of your breath.

Why It Works: Box breathing helps activate your body's relaxation response, lowering your heart rate and easing tension expand more It also brings your attention fully to the present, letting those racing thoughts fade away.

Make It Your Own:

  • Try box breathing when you're feeling stressed, anxious, or before a challenging task.

  • Experiment with different count lengths (try a 3-count or 5-count if 4 feels too long).

Remember, taking a few minutes to reset can make a world of difference in your mental well-being. Breathe in, breathe out, and find your center.

Let me know if you'd like more 5-minute reset ideas in the future!

BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT:
Organizations on a Mission
You're not alone on this journey, and there are incredible organizations dedicated to supporting men's mental health. Here's this week's spotlight on groups making a difference:

The Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton Region (CMHA Edmonton)

Offers a wide range of mental health supports, including support groups, crisis lines, and educational resources.
Website: https://edmonton.cmha.ca/

HeadsUpGuys

A website specifically designed to help men understand and manage depression. Provides practical tips, self-screening tools, and stories from other men.
Website: https://headsupguys.org/

Last but not least, ME!

I definitely do not know everything, and I am certainly not a licensed practitioner in anything to do with Mental Health, however I am an amazing listener. If anyone out there needs to talk, vent or feel like they need to reach out anonymously don’t hesitate to reach out to me.


BUSTING THE MYTH:


Myth 1: "Real men don't cry"

  • The Truth: Expressing emotions is a sign of strength, not weakness. Suppressing emotions can be harmful to mental health and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Crying is a natural human response to pain, sadness, or even joy.

Myth 2: "Men shouldn't ask for help"

  • The Truth: Seeking help when you need it is courageous. Therapy, support groups, or even confiding in a trusted friend or family member can be incredibly beneficial for your mental wellbeing.

Myth 3: "Mental health problems are a sign of weakness"

  • The Truth: Mental health conditions are just like physical illnesses – they are treatable and not a reflection of personal character. They can stem from biological, environmental, and life experience factors.

WORDS OF WISDOM:

❝

Yard by Yard makes life Hard.

Inch by Inch makes life a Cinch

Robert LeVatte

ASK THE EXPERT:

As this is the first publication, I am on the hunt for an expert to answer all of your questions. In the meantime, please email me with your questions, concerns and feedback. Everyone will be anonymous!!!

YOU ARE NOT ALONE:

  • There's a whole brotherhood walking this path beside you. You are not alone.

  • Storms pass, and the sun will shine again. Reach out, your strength is greater than you know. You are not alone.

  • Your struggles do not define you; your courage does. You are strong, you are loved, you are not alone.

  • CALL TO ACTION: Reach out, talk to someone, we are here for you."