Men’s Mental Health Meet-Up Provides Support and Solidarity

In a small room beneath Churchill’s on Cherry, a group of more than a dozen men gathered for their monthly Men’s Mental Health Meet-Up, organized by Macon Violence Prevention Coordinator Jeremy Grissom through the Macon Mental Health Matters Program. The meeting offers a safe space for men to share their experiences, seek advice, and find solace in knowing they are not alone in their struggles.

Participants, both regular attendees and newcomers, engaged in open discussions about their emotional states, ranging from initial hesitance to eventual candidness. Each meeting begins with participants rating their current emotional state on a scale of 1 to 10, fostering an atmosphere of honesty and vulnerability.

Despite varying individual challenges, participants collectively resonated around the theme of navigating societal expectations of masculinity while grappling with personal pressures. They candidly shared concerns about procrastination, fitness, overextension, overthinking, and the detrimental effects of social media on their mental well-being.

A prevalent sentiment emerged regarding the lack of male mentors or role models, leaving many feeling adrift in their journey of self-discovery and family dynamics. However, the meet-up provided a vital support network where men could seek guidance and camaraderie without judgment.

Grissom facilitated the discussion, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and the need to silence the comparative noise perpetuated by social media. Participants found comfort in the shared struggles and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect authentically with others facing similar challenges.

As the meeting concluded, attendees exchanged heartfelt farewells, promising to maintain connections beyond the monthly gatherings. Plans were made to expand the group’s reach to further impact the community positively.

The next Men’s Mental Health Meet-Up is scheduled for April 23rd at 7:00 p.m. at the same location, welcoming all men seeking support and solidarity in their mental health journey.

You can find more information on the MMHM website and by following it on Facebook.