On Saturday (10/12/24), I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Mental Wealth Expo once again – in celebration of World Mental Health Day 2024.
I make it a point to be there every year, and every time, I walk away feeling inspired and uplifted by the speakers who dedicate themselves to spreading awareness about mental health.
But this year was special. I had the privilege of meeting two remarkable advocates for men’s mental health— Jason Wilson and Jay Barnett.
These conversations reminded me of why I’m so passionate about this work and why it’s essential to continue shining a light on mental health for everyone, men and women alike.
However, for this post, the focus is on men’s mental health.
This post is all about men’s mental health.
The Impact of Mental Health on Physical Health in Men
Men’s mental health isn’t just about managing emotions—it’s about overall well-being. Many men don’t realize how closely their mental health affects their physical health. I’ve seen this firsthand throughout my career as a mental health counselor and wellness coach.
When men bottle up their stress, anxiety, and emotions, it often manifests physically, leading to severe issues, including heart disease, which is one of the leading causes of death among men.
It’s a cycle that needs to be broken, and awareness is the first step.
Addressing men’s mental health doesn’t make a man weak; it makes him stronger, healthier, and more resilient.
Meeting the Advocates: Jason Wilson & Jay Barnett
I was beyond thrilled to meet Jason Wilson and Jay Barnett at the expo. These two men are doing groundbreaking work in the world of male mental health.
Jason empowers men with the tools to master their emotions, win internal battles, and redefine masculinity. Through his own journey, he guides men to release past trauma, communicate better, and live the life they’ve always longed for with strength and purpose.
And then there’s Jay — clinical therapist, speaker, and author of the powerful book ‘Just Heal, Bro’. With his dynamic energy and deep empathy, Jay’s work resonates with men across the globe, inspiring them to heal and grow.
What’s truly beautiful is that both Jason and Jay are part of the Just Heal,Bro Tour – a global initiative dedicated to Black Male Mental Health.
We spoke briefly, and it was heartening to thank each other for the work we do in this space. It’s moments like these that remind me why I continue to advocate for mental health.
Want to know more about Just Heal, Bro Tour?
It is more than just a series of events; it’s a global movement empowering black men through safe spaces, education, and community support, fostering healing and resilience.
Men’s mental health struggles can feel isolating, but events like this tour bring men together, showing them that they’re not alone.
Read more about this movement here!
My Journey Supporting Men’s Mental Health
For over 8 years, I worked in a mandated anger management program. Afterward, I began creating my own programs, which I had the honor of teaching in men’s shelters across Brooklyn until pandemic.
My experience has shown me how vital it is for men to have spaces where they can express their emotions without fear of judgment.
Unfortunately, societal expectations often pressure men to hide their struggles, which can lead to bigger issues (such as chronic health problems) down the road.
During my time in these shelters, I met men from all walks of life, reaffirming that true healing happens when we allow ourselves to be seen and heard.
If you’ve been weighed down by men’s mental health struggles or if you know a man who needs this support, I encourage you to join the Just Heal, Bro Tour, coming on November 8, 2024. It’s a space of understanding, compassion, and community.
How to Support Men’s Mental Health: Resources and Tips
If you or a man in your life is struggling, know that there are ways to start the journey toward healing:
1. Open Up the Conversation
Encourage men to talk about how they’re feeling. It might seem simple, but just knowing someone is willing to listen can make a difference.
2. Attend Mental Health Events
Being in a supportive environment surrounded by people who understand can be incredibly powerful for men’s mental health.
3. Seek Professional Help
Therapy and counseling are not signs of weakness; they are tools that can help you grow stronger.
4. Focus on Physical Health Too
Since men’s mental health directly impacts physical health, taking care of your body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management is key.
To men – if you’re reading this, you are allowed to prioritize your mental health. You are allowed to heal. Let’s continue to break the stigma around men’s mental health and support each other on this journey.
Books for Men’s Mental Health: A Path to Healing and Growth
If you or someone you know is on a journey toward mental and emotional healing, these books are powerful resources to consider. They offer insights, tools, and personal stories that encourage men to find their voice, embrace vulnerability, and redefine masculinity on their own terms.
1. Just Heal, Bro by Jay Barnett
Many men grow up learning to suppress their emotions, creating a cycle of silence and disconnection. Just Heal, Bro is a journal designed to help men from all walks of life rediscover their voice through the power of journaling. Jay Barnett’s mission is to provide a safe space for men to process their deepest fears and discover freedom through self-expression.
2. Battle Cry by Jason Wilson
Jason Wilson shares his journey of learning to win the internal battles men face every day but are rarely taught to confront. Battle Cry equips men with mental and spiritual tools to break free from societal definitions of masculinity, enabling them to live authentically from a place of strength and compassion.
3. Cry Like a Man by Jason Wilson
In Cry Like a Man, Jason opens up about his own healing process, challenging the notion that vulnerability and male tears are weaknesses. This powerful memoir encourages men to embrace their humanity, break free from emotional incarceration, and find the courage to be their authentic selves.
These books are not just about reading; they are about healing, growth, and transformation. Grab your copy and take the first step on your journey to emotional freedom.
For more, mental health and wellness resources, click here!
Final Thoughts:
This World Mental Health Day 2024, let’s make a commitment to our brothers, sons, fathers, and friends.
Let’s encourage them to seek the support they need. Thank you to Jason Wilson and Jay Barnett for being beacons of hope and showing men everywhere that it’s okay to not be okay—and that healing is possible. Let’s come together, heal, and thrive!
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This post is all about men’s mental health.
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