A new support group focusing on peer support for men struggling with their mental health is set to launch in Melksham, following the successful establishment of a similar group in Trowbridge.
Local resident Chris Smith, inspired by his own battles with anxiety and depression, contacted a Cornwall-based organisation, Man Down, with the hope of bringing their model of support to Wiltshire. “I first acknowledged that I was suffering from poor mental health about a year ago, but I had likely been struggling for many years prior to that,” he explained. “I felt I couldn’t burden my family with my issues, yet I was desperate to improve my mental health. It became clear to me that I wanted to share my experiences with other men who had faced similar challenges, fostering mutual understanding and support.”
After extensive searching, Chris found that existing support groups were either scheduled during his working hours, located too far away, or did not provide the informal peer support he was seeking.
Chris decided to establish a local informal men’s talking group. He discovered Man Down during his search, an organisation that offers peer support specifically for men. “Fortunately, they recognised the national need for such support and agreed to share their model and experience developed over the past five years,” he added. Chris became a volunteer for Man Down and successfully launched the Trowbridge group in September. “Five men were brave enough to walk through the door on our first meeting, and that number has grown to 30 at subsequent meetings,” he said.
The Man Down meetings are designed to be accessible, relaxed, and free of charge, providing a confidential and non-judgemental space where men can gather to discuss their mental health. Chris said, “We even provide tea, coffee, and biscuits to create a welcoming environment.”
The next Melksham meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 5th November, from 7pm to 9pm at Bowerhill Village Hall, with future meetings to be held every fortnight.
