FEATURE
“ I feel heard ”
is one of the most important feelings to have when entering the micro groups and knowing that it is a give and take relationship can help you express yourself the way you want and in the way you feel comfortable considering others are doing the same thing .
In a similar case , Chris battled with depression and anxiety because of the pandemic and isolation from society . He believes “ being with someone is very important ” and finds that doing something while talking is helpful . According to ‘ How to Listen so Men will Talk ’ by Tom Chapman , “ Men are often better at talking while doing , which is why you find similar groups that revolve around mechanics , football , gardening and fitness .” Chris mentioned that apart from talking , outdoor activities has also helped with his anxiety .
Searching for a group to meet with seems to be as simple as typing in “ meetup . com ” on Google , which is what Chris did to find MGN .
On the official MGN website , you ’ ll find a form that asks specific questions about you and your needs . Considering the organisation is aimed to cater to everyone ’ s needs , the more specific answers you give , the more accurate and helpful your group will be . You ’ ll be able to answer questions like if you ’ d prefer to meet online or in person , as well as what you are looking for in your community . According to Wilder , he would compare your answers from the form to other people who have filled it out to find those who fit each other ' s needs - “ those who complement each other .” Wilder takes into consideration not just your location but most importantly your needs as he wants the micro community to be a safe space . Somewhere you ’ d look forward to going .
Obviously , there would be less
boundaries and restrictions when creating a group if you prefer to meet online , but he highly recommends meeting your group in person as it will be easier for you to make an emotional connection and develop trust and understanding with your group . Joining MGN , or any other mental health charity that allows a more interactive atmosphere , would benefit your mental health greatly . According to an article by The Lancet , “ New opportunities are opening for further action . Evidence about how to deliver health services , including health promotion , that meet men ' s needs more effectively is more widely available .”
The first step is acknowledging that you need help . Everyone experiences mental health issues differently and does different things to improve it . So , if talking about your struggles to someone else does not help you mentally , then doing activities with people you trust or doing something to help you relax may help you improve your mental health .
“ Emotions are just as valid as anything else ." - Sol Wilder
“ Our mission is to create more In Person , Virtual & Community spaces to facilitate True Community & meaningful connection through training , mentoring & support .”
Men ' s Group Network website homepage
Sol Wilder , Founder and CEO of MGN
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