EP044 - MAN DOWN - JAMIE CLEMENTS

A tragedy or significant event in your life can spark action that takes you off on a journey. That journey starts with a single step, either physically or mentally, but change happens and growth occurs. Maybe it's the spark that helps you do life better. This week we talk man stuff with Jamie Clements, host of the Man Down podcast. After a friend tragically took his own life, Jamie was inspired to speak out more about his own struggles and also to help other guys who might find talking to someone ‘difficult’. Tune in to hear about  authenticity,  the benefits of talking,  getting around the right people,  male engagement with well-being,  podcasting impact globally,  the power of breath work, identity and purpose. My take on all this? The world, more than ever, needs strong men, but that doesn't mean you shouldn’t talk to someone if you are finding things challenging. That doesn't have to mean you are suicidal, but even having open discussion with someone who is interested in listening can reap benefits (or even talking to a lamppost). Men can shoulder responsibility which is fine, but if it gets to a stage where the pressure becomes too much, and you don’t have an outlet to let out that pressure, we know where that sadly leads, the personal coping mechanisms, of which taking their own life is one. Statisticians said that higher rates of suicide among middle-aged men might be because of economic hardship, isolation and alcoholism, and men in this category may be less likely to seek help. You will realise there are people who will listen, and there are people who will help you. There is always someone to talk to. I welcome comments on this podcast and of course, any other you listen to!