Support Group for Men’s Mental Health Launches in Orford to Prevent Crisis
In a heartfelt effort to address men’s mental health struggles long before they escalate, two friends from Orford have taken a stand to create a safe haven for open dialogue in Warrington. Ian Webb and Nathan Savage, the masterminds behind More than Men, embarked on this noble mission after personally battling their own mental health demons. Their initiative, which took flight in the summer of 2023, aims to provide a supportive environment where men can freely discuss their mental health challenges, bridging the gap between seeking help and receiving it.
The Birth of a Lifesaving Initiative
More than Men holds monthly breakfast club meetings at the Whitecross Community Centre, welcoming men of all ages, from 20-year-olds to 62-year-olds. Over a year since its inception, the group is expanding its reach with the introduction of a new weekly gathering called Brew and Banter. Ian Webb, 33, candidly shared his personal journey with mental health struggles, revealing his triumph over borderline personality disorder, alcohol, and cocaine addiction, now celebrating over 20 months of sobriety. Nathan, his partner in this noble cause, has navigated his own mental health challenges, including an adult ADHD diagnosis.
A Safe Haven for Men to Connect
The essence of Brew and Banter lies in providing a relaxed setting where men can engage in conversation, fostering connections and support long before crisis strikes. Straying from conventional meeting formats, the group opts for a laid-back, table-based setup that encourages organic dialogue over a cup of brew. To support their members, Ian and Nathan have organized various events, including walks, mental health defense classes, and even funded private therapy sessions. Their recent snooker tournament raised £500 for these initiatives, with a comedy night fundraiser on the horizon.
A Community United for Mental Health
Stepping up their fundraising efforts, More than Men will partake in the Warrington Wellbeing Walk at Moore Nature Reserve this January. For those interested in joining the Brew and Banter sessions, they are held every Thursday at the Whitecross Community Centre from 7pm to 8.30pm. Ian emphasizes that these gatherings offer a safe, pressure-free space for men to connect, converse, and share their experiences without judgment or expectations.
In a world where mental health struggles often go unnoticed or unaddressed, initiatives like More than Men are beacons of hope, reminding us that vulnerability and connection are powerful tools in the battle against mental health challenges. Join the movement, because sometimes, a simple conversation over a cup of coffee can save a life.
