EP 12 - Men's Mental Health

This heartfelt episode dives into the deeply personal stories of Joey and Pie as they navigate the complexities of men’s mental health. Joey shares how cosplay became more than just a hobby — it turned into a vital outlet during some of his darkest moments. Pie opens up about the emotional toll of grief, family pressures, and the silent struggles faced during and after military life. Together, they reflect on vulnerability, the importance of community, and how sharing experiences can break down stigma and foster genuine connection. It’s an honest, raw, and empowering conversation about healing, support, and the strength in speaking up.Boys Get Sad Too - https://boysgetsadtoo.com/Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/Mind - https://www.mind.org.uk/Health Assured - https://www.healthassured.org/Gust Socials:Joey - Last_Action_Hero_Cosplay - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/last_action_hero_cosplay/Pie - Piezorplays - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/piezorplays/Hosts Socials:Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_gn/Podcast Socials: LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=adde6ee7-75be-4b74-a829-fb406f933f8cChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Men's Mental Health05:03 - The Impact of Everyday Life on Mental Health10:24 - The Role of Cosplay in Mental Health15:58 - The Importance of Feedback and Encouragement21:21 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts34:18 - The Gambit Legacy39:44 - The Burden of Vulnerability46:22 - Sharing Personal Stories01:07:41 - Discovering a New Passion01:15:18 - Personal Stories and Mental Health01:49:11 - Finding Help and Healing02:00:53 - Coping Mechanisms and the Aftermath02:06:43 - Finding Support and New Beginnings02:14:39 - Embracing Vulnerability: Sharing My Story02:22:51 - The Journey to Joining the Army02:27:31 - Basic Training: The Harsh Reality02:37:46 - Deployment in Afghanistan: A Turning Point02:42:47 - Family Fractures and Mental Health Struggles02:53:06 - The Breaking Point: Acknowledging Mental Health Issues02:57:26 - Struggles with Anxiety and Panic Attacks03:02:25 - The Impact of Relationships on Mental Health03:07:34 - Coping Mechanisms and Escaping Emotions03:12:33 - The Journey to Finding Support and Treatment03:16:47 - The Importance of Connection and Community03:24:16 - Resources for Mental Health Support