Mental health is a massive issue for people across the world and can affect everyone in a different way.
Often referred to as the “black dog”, it can be experienced through conditions like depression or anxiety but isn’t always seen by those around us.
Helping to tackle this is Andy’s Man Club. Set up by Luke Ambler and Elaine Roberts after the tragic loss of Andy, Luke’s brother-in-law and Elaine’s son, in 2016, the charity now has over 350 support groups nationwide.
Three operate in Grimsby alone with several others in the surrounding area. Every Monday, the groups meet between 7pm and 9pm to talk about their week and discuss any problems they might have.
Ran by individuals known as facilitators, it’s helping break down the stigma and telling men It’s Okay To Talk. At Franklin College, Jack Solak and Mark Collins are the facilitators welcoming anywhere between 20 to 40 men through the doors every week.
Jack said: “Over two years ago I started using Andy’s Man Club and eventually became a Lead Facilitator at this group.
“I found out about it in 2022 and it took me nearly a year to come because I was so anxious. I was like many guys; I kept everything bottled up and I didn’t speak to people about my struggles.
“When I eventually came here I realised I wasn’t on my own – I found it easier talking to strangers and to people who are feeling the same.”
He added: “Coming here has opened my mind and it’s taught me that it’s okay to not be okay and to talk. I’m much more open about my problems now and I feel like I can speak to anyone now.”
Mark has been coming to the session for four years now, but like Jack, wasn’t sure about walking through the doors for the first time. “I think it took me 10 attempts before I eventually came to the group.”
After the loss of his parents, Mark admits his mental health deteriorated. “I was sceptical at first and I said I wasn’t bothered about talking.
“Now, it’s nice to be able to talk about things openly. It can be any little thing that bothers someone, but if it’s important to you then we can talk about it.
“Everybody comes for a particular reason, but it may not be the only reason. I came after the passing of my parents but recently, I’ve been diagnosed with cancer and I’m using this as a platform to talk about that too.”
He added: “Getting the initial subject of my chest helped me to get into a lot more of the issues that I’ve got and I felt relieved walking out after that first time.”
His main piece of advice is something that can resonate with everyone though. “If you don’t feel comfortable coming here, but have problems going on, talk to somebody. Just give it a go, it helps massively.”
For more information on Andy’s Man Club and to find your local group, visit ANDYSMANCLUB – It’s Okay To Talk.
Main image caption – Jack Solak and Mark Collins
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