build and build and result in a male behaving in unproductive ways. In recent years several AFL


footballers, media personalities, and successful men from various walks of life have had the courage to open up about their depression and anxieties. In doing so they have paved the way for more discussion, publicly and privately. With heads held high and with supportive people by their side they have opened themselves to the opportunity of releasing the pressure valve and discovering that their honesty has begun to break the chain. An often- quoted maxim is, ‘we are as sick as our secrets’. How wonderful that these men, so often in the media, are willing advocates for mental health.


THE NEXT STEPS But what is the next step in men’s mental health? One answer rests in continued discussion, which must


begin in primary schools, continue in secondary school, and be implemented in all jobs. Just as we are seeing ‘work care’ commercials, we must also promote wellness as an integral part of the school and working day. The ‘R U OK?’ campaign has set a


new precedent. The four steps: Ask, Listen, Encourage Action, and Check in, promote the need to be proactive. The question ‘R U OK?’ can be a life- saving question. We can only change things one step at


the time and it will take time to change men’s perceptions about the need to consider their mental state of health as a priority. We must continue to champion all men in the noble quest towards healing, mental health, and self care at all stages of their life, and to place a high emphasis on encouraging them to stay connected, to talk, to nurture friendships, and most importantly, to seek help when needed. l


“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” [Sigmund Freud]


SUPPORT SERVICES Lifeline 13 11 14 (call 24/7 for crisis help) Beyondblue 1300 22 46 36 (call 24/7 for depression and anxiety support) www.beyoneblue.org.au MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78 (professional telephone and online support and information service for Australian men), www.mensline.org.au RUOK - ruok.org.au/findhelp


Connect with other readers & comment on this article at www.livingnow.com.au


Gemma Di Bari is a life coach, writer and motivational speaker based in Melbourne. As well as coaching,


she is both a secondary school and meditation teacher.


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