“Its about lived experiences from addiction to mental health issues. We’re not professionals but taking men out of a clinical setting, they feel a lot more comfortable”- says founder of Heads Up Gentlemen, Jeff Moritz.
The community group offers a safe space for men to talk and be supported about their personal struggles.
World suicide prevention month takes place every September globally, to raise awareness for suicide. Many charities get involved, in an attempt to reduce stigma and offer help.
But for so many people, suicide prevention is so much more than just a month.
Tucked away in Salford, sits Jeff Moritz- after his own struggles with mental health he noticed the lack of support available in the local community.
“I fell into a time of crisis’”, he says. “I reached out to my GP, and it was nearly 12 months before I was seen by a professional. In that waiting period, I ended up trying to take my own life.
“Once I started to feel better, I looked out for services for men in particular and I saw there was a need for this type of service in the local area.”
Unfortunately, Jeffs story isn’t unusual as 75% of all suicide deaths are men, with 14 men dying everyday due to suicide. The services are under-funded and overwhelmed with patients and for some people, they feel like they have no where to turn.
Heads Up Gentlemen run free sessions all over Salford — offering a support group for anyone struggling. Their sessions aren’t designed to replace professional help, but instead provide a safe space.
“Men need to talk up, they need to realise that it makes you stronger”, Jeff added.
The sessions take on a variety of formats. For example their Wednesday sessions which take place at Pendlebury Social Club offer the chance for casual conversations. Their slogan ‘no silence, just strength’ reinforces the group’s aim.
The club also encourages physical activities. From bowling, pool competitions to even swimming trips- there is something for everyone.
The moto ‘No silence. Just strength’ is deeper than just a Facebook caption. It offers so many people crucial support and the chance to seek help.
Heads Up Gentlemen will be holding a comedy, theatre night to raise funds for mental health services in November. If you want to see their journey then you can follow them on Facebook, here.
