This week is Men's Health Week, and it's a chance to recognise and reflect on how important mental health is for men. General Manager, Medical Specialities, Dominic Bryan, who is also one of the leads in the CHFT men’s mental health project group, takes us through why men's mental health is important, and why he's running a half marathon for the cause. 

Dominic said: “As we enter Men’s Health Week I would like to take this as an opportunity to recognise how important mental health is to all of us, but, also take a moment to reflect on the very real issue around men’s mental health struggles. This is a huge issue in today’s society with suicide continuing to be the leading cause of death in men under 50.

For this reason, I will be completing the Warrington half marathon in September in aid of ‘MANUP?’ which is a men’s mental health charity funding groundbreaking research focusing on why men are struggling with mental health issues. MANUP? also provide free therapy group sessions for any man in need. This charity’s social media showcases real life examples of men overcoming mental health problems to evidence it is possible to overcome mental health issues and further break down the stigma around men’s mental health.

If you would like to donate to help support this fantastic charity in their mission, please donate using the link below:https://gofund.me/55cffcac

"Those of you who work closely with me will know I used to play rugby league (pictured). However, you will also know that long-distance running is something I try to avoid so this half marathon will be a challenge!

"I started getting involved in raising awareness about this issue within the Trust in October 2023, and ever since the response from everyone has been unbelievable. I would like to thank you all for your engagement and it shows how important this issue is to us all and further proves why CHFT is a great place to work!"

Our men’s mental health information page can be accessed via the below intranet link: Men's Mental Health - CHFT Intranet

The Trust also recently launched a new Workplace Mental Health Toolkit, which you can find here: https://cht.pagetiger.com/cdcnwds/1. The toolkit is for all colleagues to help support in case of mental health difficulties at work. Inside the toolkit you’ll find information from a Clinical Psychologist about common mental health difficulties, what may underpin them and how to approach changes which may improve your mental health at work. It also includes signposting information for additional support should you need it.