Battling Depression

Around ten months ago, I found myself in a place I never thought I’d be—facing depression for the first time in my life. It was affecting my thoughts, my energy, and my ability to feel like myself. I didn’t fully understand what was happening at first, only that something wasn’t right. It was unfamiliar, overwhelming, and incredibly isolating.

Looking back, I know realise I had probably been masking my feelings for quite some time. It got to the point I was staying in bed, not wanting to get out and wishing for it all to be over.

That’s when I realised I needed help.

As well as contacting my GP, who agreed to start me on anti-depressants, I decided to go along to an Andy’s Man Club meeting.

What is Andy’s Man Club?

Andy’s Man Club is a charity that coordinates weekly peer-to-peer support groups for men in the UK that aims to help and improve mental health in men. It was one of the most nerve-wracking decisions I’ve ever made – I got my sister to drive me there because I didn’t actually believe that I would walk in. After building up the courage to go inside, I was welcomed by a facilitator who explained a bit about the sessions and pointed me in the direction of the tea and biscuits! As I sat though the session, I came to the realisation that everyone here was going through something similar to what I was going through. I realised I wasn’t alone.

8 months on…

My first meeting was 8 months ago and, even though I am now in a much better space, I still attend and share my experiences. I enjoy AMC because you aren't judged, it's a space where you can really talk about anything that is getting you down and just be open and honest about how you're feeling. I generally feel better for attending and i can definitely feel the difference when i can't make it.

Paying it forward

Knowing first hand the difference Andy’s Man Club can make, I decided to start up monthly meetings for SSE colleagues and give others the opportunity to experience it for themselves.

We’ve just had our first meeting and it went really well. Having a space where men from all walks of life can come together to talk, listen, and support one another without judgment can really make a massive difference in your life.