MEN V OBSTACLES

A men’s-only mental health session designed to get blokes outdoors, active & socialising!

WHAT
3-4k walk in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Followed by a lap of our 1km long, 30 obstacle outdoor assault course
Finished off with a coffee at Suffolk Food Hall

WHERE
The Playground
Suffolk Food Hall
Ipswich
IP9 2AB

WHEN
Saturday 20th September 0900hrs
(This will then be a monthly event, next date TBC)

COST
£20.96 (including booking fee)

 

🧠 Key Reasons Men Struggle with Mental Health

1. Societal Expectations & Masculine Norms

  • Men are often expected to be stoic, strong, and emotionally restrained.

  • Expressing vulnerability is seen as weakness, which discourages open conversations about mental health.

2. Stigma & Shame

  • Fear of judgment or being perceived as "less masculine" prevents many men from seeking help.

  • This stigma is reinforced by media portrayals and cultural norms.

3. Atypical Symptom Expression

  • Male depression may manifest as anger, irritability, substance abuse, or risk-taking rather than sadness or withdrawal.

  • These symptoms are often misunderstood or overlooked, leading to underdiagnosis.

4. Lack of Tailored Support

  • Mental health services are often not designed with men’s needs or preferences in mind.

  • Men-centered approaches, like peer support groups or activity-based therapy, are still limited.

5. Higher Risk Behaviors & Outcomes

  • Men are more likely to die by suicide, misuse drugs and alcohol, and experience homelessness.

  • Middle-aged men (40–49) in the UK have the highest suicide rates.

6. Poor Mental Health Literacy

  • Many men struggle to recognize or articulate their emotional struggles.

  • This can delay help-seeking and worsen outcomes.

🌿 Why Men Should Get Outdoors, Get Active & Socialize

1. Boosts Mental Health & Reduces Stress

  • Nature exposure lowers cortisol levels and eases anxiety.

  • Physical activity releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression.

2. Builds Confidence & Resilience

  • Outdoor challenges (like hiking or team sports) push men out of their comfort zones.

  • Overcoming physical and mental hurdles fosters self-belief and emotional strength.

3. Strengthens Social Bonds

  • Group activities create space for genuine connection and camaraderie.

  • Talking with other men—especially in informal, active settings—can help process emotions and reduce isolation.

4. Improves Physical Health

  • Activities like walking, cycling, or playing football improve cardiovascular fitness, bone strength, and immune function.

  • Sunlight boosts vitamin D, which supports mood and testosterone levels.

5. Enhances Sleep & Focus

  • Natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality.

  • Outdoor movement sharpens mental clarity and focus, which is often dulled by screen-heavy routines.

6. Encourages Emotional Expression

  • Shared experiences in nature or sport can make it easier for men to open up.

  • Peer support in male groups fosters emotional honesty without pressure or judgment.