In episode three of To Be A Boy, Elliott Rae and Joeli Brearley are joined by author and award-winning podcast host, Alex Holmes to explore the complex issues surrounding men’s mental health. And before that, they look at how 2025's International Women's Day has been received and what they take from that. As well as the personal reasons behind their passion for improving men's mental health. Strap in.

They examine the awful statistics of male suicide, and the challenges men face in forming meaningful connections. Society's ingrained norms often stifle emotional expression, and Alex talks us through the importance of fostering friendships among men.

Loneliness has a significant impact on well-being, and our team discuss the barriers men encounter when seeking mental health support.

Alex highlights the need for better listening skills and emotional literacy to improve communication and bonding among men, calling for a cultural shift in our approach to masculinity and mental health. Worth a listen, isn’t it?

Global Boyhood Initiative, conversation starter cards: https://www.boyhoodinitiative.org/resources?field_taxonomy_ref_target_id=6&field_audience_ref_target_id=All

Men's peer support groups:

Andy's Man Club: www.andysmanclub.co.uk

MusicFootballFatherhood: www.musicfootballfatherhood.com

Men and Boys Coalition: www.menandboyscoalition.org.uk

Professional Mental Health support:

MIND: www.mind.org.uk/

CALM: www.thecalmzone.net

Contact your GP to access free NHS Talking Therapy

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