There has been a big change in the people coming to see me over the last year or so.

In fact perhaps even over the last few months. In the past I saw more women than men but that is something that has really changed over the last few months. Now, more men than ever are reaching out, being honest about things that they are struggling with and taking the difficult step of actually telling someone all about it.

After the shocking news about the suicide of Robin Williams more people are talking about men and their mental health. There was a very powerful piece written by musician Professor Green that appeared in the Guardian Newspaper about how his own father taking his life affected him. You can read that article here.. http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/aug/20/men-suffer-depression-anxiety

It takes courage to speak out and tell someone about how you feel. In fact what often happens is that just picking up the phone or sending an email to someone asking for help and advice can already start to make you feel better. There is simply no reason to ever feel that you should deal with everything that causes you stress and anxiety alone. It may be the way that people thought men should live their lives in the past but things have changed. We can all move on and we can all see a better way. You don't have to wait until you are at your lowest before you seek help. You can ask for help at any time at all. Never be afraid.

If you are suffering from stress and anxiety then just consider taking that first step.

Reach out and ask for help. You may well be surprised at how much better you will be able to feel from just the act of sharing.

In the words of the song Lullaby by Professor Green.. “Things always change, as long as you give them the chance to.”

You can talk to your GP in confidence and you may be surprised at the help you can be offered.

You can email me on [email protected] or call me on 07980 233160 if you would like any help or advice. 

In the UK the Samaritans can be contacted on 08457 90 90 90, or you can visit samaritans.org.

Likewise, Mind can be reached on 0300 123 3393, [email protected] or by texting 86463. Its website is www.mind.org.uk.

In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-8255.

In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is on 13 11 14.