FEATURE
Most of Chapman ’ s advice seems to come from personal experience with a few references from other studies like Dr Christabel Owens ’ research on “ Safe to Talk About Suicide ” ( 83 ) which says that it is safe to talk about suicide despite what is depicted on the media .
Chapman ’ s goal with the book is clear ; to prevent any more suicides by helping people become aware of any signs of ill mental health and respond to it before it becomes something irreversible . Chapman addresses the reader many times and gives tips on how to look after their own mental health .
Some of the advice provided can work for both men and women , however , Chapman makes a point to be more cautious and sensitive when asking men to open up . This is because women open up about their troubles more easily than men do , so if a man does not feel comfortable or feels like they will be judged , then that would stop him from talking . Similarly , a lot of the scenarios Chapman are personal circumstances he has been through , which may not relate to what you ' re going through .
Final Thoughts :
If you want to purchase the book yourself you can order it on Amazon for £ 7.69
' How to Listen so Men will Talk ' delivers easy to follow advice in a simple form that anyone can understand as well as the reasoning behind them . Though it carries a handful of advice , we do recommend this book for anyone who wants to help or support someone they may know who silently suffers from mental disorders .
It is important that readers keep in mind that the book is merely a guide . It does not mean that you have to exactly what it says since every man is an individual and might talk under different circumstances and it could depend on who he ' s talking to . So , you may have to be the judge on whether you can follow the steps successfully or if are the best person to approach him , especially if your relationship is not that close . Referring the person who may be a friend , lover , brother or even co-worker to a professional , charity , organisation , or even telling someone close to him your concerns is also a form of support .
Tom Chapman , Author , Barber and Founder of Lion ' s Barber Collective
ISSUE 1 MENTION IT 17