Breaking Barriers: Why Men Should Embrace Therapy and How True North Collective Can Help.
On January 20, 2025, True North Collective (TNC) launches its comprehensive counselling and therapy service, addressing a critical need in mental health support, particularly for men. This launch comes at a time when the disparity in mental health treatment between genders is more apparent than ever.
The Gender Gap in Mental Health Support
In the UK, only 36% of referrals for talking therapies like counselling and psychotherapy are for men (Baker, 2018). This statistic is alarming, especially considering that suicide rates among men are approximately three times higher than women (Office for National Statistics, 2022). The reluctance of men to seek therapy stems from various factors, including societal pressure to conform to traditional masculine norms of self-reliance and emotional control.
Understanding the Barriers
Many men struggle to express emotions, fearing it will lead to a loss of masculine identity (Scholz, Crabb and Wittert, 2017). There's also widespread scepticism about the benefits of therapy, particularly when it involves self-disclosure and introspection (Lynch, Long and Moorhead, 2018). These barriers can lead to severe consequences, with men more likely to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse and risk-taking behaviours (Affleck, Carmichael and Whitley, 2018).
True North Collective's Approach
TNC's new counselling and therapy service aims to break down these barriers. Our programme provides a comprehensive suite of therapeutic and mental health support activities, designed to address individual needs and enhance emotional resilience.
We offer:
Therapeutic Support: Counselling, listening skills, and communication skills training.
Specialised Therapies: Innovative approaches like dance elemental therapy, sound healing, and forest bathing.
Health Management: Understanding chronic pain and stress reduction techniques.
Why Our Approach Works
Flexibility: Our programme accommodates ongoing participation and new intakes, allowing men to join at any time and engage in different activities as their needs evolve
Diverse Options: We offer alternative formats that may be more appealing to men who are hesitant about traditional face-to-face counselling (Berger et al., 2013).
Holistic Support: Our interconnected projects combine mental health support with digital skills training and social activities, providing a comprehensive approach to well-being
Safe Space: We create an environment where men can explore their emotions, gain insight into their thought patterns, and develop healthier coping strategies without judgment.
The Benefits of Therapy for Men
Therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth, self-understanding, and overall well-being. It can help address a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, and low self-esteem (Orlando Health, 2023). By challenging outdated notions of masculinity and promoting open conversations about mental health, we aim to create a more supportive environment for men to prioritise their emotional well-being.
Innovative Approaches to Mental Health
At TNC, we believe in offering a diverse range of therapeutic options to cater to different preferences and needs. Our specialised therapies, such as dance elemental therapy and sound healing, provide unique avenues for self-expression and healing.
These innovative approaches can be particularly appealing to men who may feel uncomfortable with traditional talk therapy.
Community Integration and Long-term Support
Our programme is designed not just for short-term intervention but for long-lasting impact. We emphasise community integration, partnering with local organisations to provide a far-reaching support network.
This approach ensures that participants have access to resources and connections beyond their time in our programme, fostering sustainable well-being and personal growth.
Digital Inclusion and Financial Empowerment
Recognising the interconnected nature of mental health and overall life satisfaction, TNC also offers digital skills training and financial literacy programmes.
These initiatives aim to reduce social and digital isolation, empowering men to manage their finances, pursue career goals, and engage confidently in the digital world. By addressing these practical aspects of life alongside mental health support, we provide a truly holistic approach to well-being.
Join Us in Breaking the Stigma
As we launch our counselling and therapy service on January 20, 2025, we invite men to take the courageous step towards better mental health. At True North Collective, we believe that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Our doors are open to all who wish to embark on a journey of self-discovery and emotional resilience. Remember, it's not just about surviving; it's about thriving. Let's work together to break the silence surrounding men's mental health and build a community where everyone feels empowered to seek the support they need.
References
Affleck, W., Carmichael, V. and Whitley, R., 2018. Men's Mental Health: Social Determinants and Implications for Services. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 63(9), pp.581-589.
Baker, C., 2018. Obesity Statistics. House of Commons Library.
Berger, J.L., Addis, M.E., Green, J.D., Mackowiak, C. and Goldberg, V., 2013. Men's Reactions to Mental Health Labels, Forms of Help-Seeking, and Sources of Help-Seeking Advice. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 14(4), pp.433-443.
Lynch, L., Long, M. and Moorhead, A., 2018. Young Men, Help-Seeking, and Mental Health Services: Exploring Barriers and Solutions. American Journal of Men's Health, 12(1), pp.126-139.
Office for National Statistics, 2022. Suicides in England and Wales: 2021 registrations.Orlando Health, 2023. Why Men Don't Go to Therapy. [online] Available at: https://www.orlandohealth.com/content-hub/why-men-dont-go-to-therapy [Accessed 19 January 2025].
Scholz, B., Crabb, S. and Wittert, G.A., 2017. "Males Don't Wanna Bring Anything up to Their Doctor": Men's Discourses of Depression. Qualitative Health Research, 27(5), pp.727-737.
Blog written and researched by:
Richard Pierce, Director of Counselling and Therapy Services, True North Collective.
