MENTAL health charity, Wiltshire Mind, is launching a new weekly support group for men suffering with mental health issues.
The group is for all men but primarily for middle aged men who, the charity believe, are most at risk and less likely to seek help.
Chief executive at Wiltshire Mind, Carolyn Beale said, “At Wiltshire Mind we have received a grant to enable us to set up a six- month pilot for a group specifically for men.
“It is estimated that there are more than 23,000 men in Wiltshire suffering with a mental health disorder, typically anxiety, depression, general anxieties, phobias, panic attacks and obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD).
“Men are three times more likely than women to end their own lives. It is clear that there is a need among men that is not being met.
“The weekly group will be held in our offices at 6pm and will be run by an experienced facilitator.
“The aim of the group will be to tackle the problems of poor mental health and deal with isolation and loss of confidence and self-esteem, by providing a range of support, advice, information and signposting to other services.
“The group will offer one-to-one support, a chance to meet and talk to other men in a similar situation and a range of recreational activities such as art therapy, anger and relationship sessions, photography and information sessions.
“We believe that attending these groups will be a help in improving daily life, provide social interaction and reduce isolation.
“Wiltshire Mind is a long-established mental health charity. We receive no funding from national Mind and are not commissioned to provide services. We need to raise direct funding for the services we provide.”
To find out more call on 01225 706532 or email: office@wiltshiremind.co.uk visit: www.wiltshiremind.co.uk 21-23 High Street, Melksham. SN12 6JY
