A digital approach could be the best way to combat “toxic masculinity” and help men suffering in silence address their mental health conditions.
SNP councillor Michael Cullen believes that technology, where people can talk to a counsellor through a mobile app at any time, as well as providing “safe spaces” within the community, are needed to allow men to access the help they need and talk about their feelings without being judged.
At Thursday’s full council meeting members agreed to set up a short-term working group to analyse support services through a “male lens” within Glasgow City Council’s workspaces.
Councillor Cullen said: “This is a personal issue and I have been campaigning for this for at least two and a half years.
“Men feel that they are unable to talk about their feelings. We will set up a short life working group through a “male lens” to allow us to help men with mental health conditions.
“Men are less likely to ask for help during these times and we need to address the stigma and taboo of mental health once and for all.
“The suicide rate of men is high and we need a fresh set of eyes to look at this.”
Mr Cullen hopes he can get involved in the project following his own struggles battling depression and suicide.
He continued: “I don’t know what would have happened if it hadn’t been for the support of my family.
“There is a toxic masculinity where men feel they can’t ask for help because it isn’t manly.
“A spare room in a community hall, might be used as a safe space for a peer support group.
“Hosting a meeting in such a space, where it is unclear to a passer-by where they are going, might make it easier for a men to attend.”
The findings from the working group are expected by February next year.
