Mark says he is an ex-soldier and ex-construction worker who was signposted to Andy’s Man Club after an attempted suicide. He talks about how being able to open up to others changed his life.
Mark talks about growing up having experienced abuse and rape. As he became an adult he felt he had no choice but to push those feelings and memories down and how that led him into some bad situations.
Rape Crisis Scotland support people who have been affected by rape and sexual abuse.
SurvivorsUK supports men and non-binary people who have been affected by rape or sexual abuse. You can contact the national online helpline by:
- texting 020 3322 1860
- using the webchat
Mark discusses how he felt men didn’t share their problems, and learning at Andy’s Man Club that it shows strength to talk.
Neil’s story includes a chapter called “it was a struggle to be open and honest with others” that discusses why it’s important to open up about your feelings.
Mind have advice on how to open up and talk to your family and friends.
Mark says he feels that society is changing and it’s becoming normal for men to open up about their feelings.
Talking about emotions may not be for everyone, and that’s ok, but there’s practical help there when needed.
Andy talks about the experiences he had in the army and after, his experience of losing his job and how these stressful situations affected his thoughts.
Veterans First Point is a service run by veterans for veterans in Scotland. They help find public services and charities that offer the help veterans need.
Citizens Advice Scotland have information and advice for coping with job loss.
Family members and loved ones are often the ones who notice something. SAMH have some advice on how to talk to a loved one about suicide.
Mark tells us it’s still difficult for him to remember how he felt and how close he came to suicide. His family and friends helped him and he now is able to talk to them about his feelings and be open with them.
Jenn’s story talks about the experience of a family being bereaved by suicide.
Mark says you are not alone and there is help there for you.
NHS 24 offer a range of talking services that are there for you when you need them.
Andy’s Man Club has meetings at locations around the country.
Mark explains that men are not good at opening up and talking about themselves but that you should feel reassured that lots of people feel the same way. There are places to go, people to talk to and help available.