“I miss being part of the team" says three-time World Rugby player of the year Richie McCaw.  Often when our lives change, retirement, injury or taking on a carer role, the loss of existing social connections can hit hard.  Finding a healthy way to build new supports and develop goals is critical.

Speaking about their latest single 'Leave a light on', Papa Roach frontman Jacoby Shaddix said "There's a message of hope in there that people are connecting with."  The song encourages people to be there to support when someone else is struggling. 

As men go through life there are often times where work, family, health and other factors have an impact on our relationships with others, notably with mates.  Making new friends as an adult can be difficult but social activities like cycling offer men an informal place to connect.

If you are caring for someone with complex mental health needs did you know that you can access free digital and telehealth services through Australian organisation SANE.  With counselling, peer support and forums there is always somewhere to turn.

Dalton Mack, a Marine Corps veteran in the US is making his way across the country raising funds for Movember but also to shine a light on the struggles of veterans.  'Mack' said he would rather 'get a call from my friends at 2 a.m. than about my friends at 8 a.m.'

"Finding emotional room to breathe" is partly how social worker Nick Norman describes the shift of how men view their mental health.  Men are slowly redefining what masculinty means and developing an openness to seeking help more often.

Describing support services as hard to access or find, Gabriel Carazo, creator of the 'RAD Dads' community says "Anyone can do this. I'm just an everyday person". The RAD Dad's regular activities include gardening, bushwalking, and bike riding in the Macedon Ranges region of Victoria.

R U OK? Day was last month but everyday is an opportunity to check in with the people in your world.  The team at R U OK? work all year round on resources and campaigns that focus on connecting with a range of people and settings.

It is normal to ask friends or family for feedback or read reviews before making a new purchase or making lifestyle changes.  Do you take all this advice on as a collective or pick out the advice that is most relevant for you?

Some days caring can feel like you are just managing to hold it all together and then out of the blue something happens that throws everything out.  Are you someone who can stop and pause before you react?  Hard to do in the moment but that moment to think can make a difference.

Did you know that maintaining social connections can help play a role in improved memory, boosts your mood and protects against several chronic conditions.  Live Up is a new website which offers Senior Australians some ideas for getting more social. 

'Loneliness affects everyone' is the tagline on an infographic highlighting the state of social connection in Australia.  Almost 1 in 3 report feeling lonely though sadly around half conceal these feelings or are embarrassed to talk with others about it.

In a recent article about seeing good in others, psychologist Rick Hanson writes about how  interactions today often have a 'bumper car' quality to them, that we bounce off each other and move on without slowing down to recognise the abilities and good in others. 

"All you need to do is be present and then magical, unexpected things can happen." say's Chris, a father talking about ways new dads can build a strong bond with their child.  Australian site PANDA offers a whole range of practical tips and resources for new and expecting Dads. 

ICC Hall of Fame cricketer and former Australian cricket captain Allan Border recently shared that he is living with Parkinson's Disease making him one of 38 Australians diagnosed everyday.  'Shake it Up Show' is a podcast about the 'different experiences in the Parkinson’s community'  

When talking with other men about infertility, 32 year old New Zealand man Manu Fisi’ihoi says "I feel like it is more just being a listener.”  Diagnosed with male factor infertility, Manu describes feeling "inadequate and less of a man.”

When now writer and musician Jeff Dingler was just 14 years old, his dad was admitted to a psychiatric hospital.  Over the following years he sought to learn about masculinity from other men with a guitar teacher and veteran helping to shape his outlook on life.

Baking cakes and a 4:30am swim are probably not the first things that come to mind when you think about the day of a sheep station manager from Broken Hill.  For farmer Brendan Cullen they are part of his self help strategies that he uses to help manage the pressures of life on the land.

The team at Movember have come up with a series of short videos aimed at 'reframing therapy as a preventative treatment rather than as a last resort'.  What is therapy, some of the barriers men experience and what happens in a session are all covered in the series.

Feeling wobbly and “seeing a little grey and not the blue” is how Hollywood star Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson describes his experience of depression.  Dealing with a shoulder injury and working through a divorce, one of the toughest, strongest men on the planet recognised he couldn't go through it alone.

Using a group chat to share jokes and trash talk each other throughout the year, a group of men in New York vie for the title of Man of the Year.  The truth is, the trophy and title take a backseat to the value of keeping in touch with mates and traditions that keep their friendships strong. 

When something difficult or challenging happens in life men traditionally view things as a problem that needs to be solved.  When it comes to certain things like grief, there is no solution and as such the emotions and feelings need to be experienced in some way. 

Farmers are an integral part of the Australian landscape yet with many in rural and remote areas the opportunity to connect socially with others is largely limited.  One antidote to the loneliness and isolation may lay in the hustle and bustle of cattle saleyards.    

"Barricading emotions, curtailing disruption, diverting attention and self-medicating" are some of the coping strategies attributed to older men who are largely an 'invisible' demographic of people providing informal care support. 

When caring, sometimes the hobbies and simple things you enjoy doing often take a back seat as your focus and energy goes into other areas of life.  Taking stock of your time and planning ahead are some ways that can help you find and enjoy time out.

In Limbo is a new Australian TV show which tackles sensitive topics like suicide, depression, addiction and domestic violence in what has been described as the 'pace and tone' of a sitcom.  The show also explores shock, regret, guilt and grief linked to a sudden death.

Learning to play twinkle, twinkle little star may be a simple introduction to guitar for many but to people living with Parkinson's, learning the music and the shared social experiences could be a way to 'improve their cognitive ability & emotional well-being'.

As men get older, we can often be unprepared for the physical and relationship changes that occur.  Mental Health First Aid Australia has listed 'Building strong social networks' at the top of their list for protective factors to help you manage when these changes occur. 

For many blokes the caring role can unknowingly lead us away from support networks that typically exist in work, study or sporting clubs. Volunteering is a way you can stay connected with others and gain satisfaction from helping your local community.

For many in the caring role, planning day to day is challenging and when those plans don't work out it can create anxiety, frustration and irritation.  These negative feelings are normal but can lead to challenges in our relationships with others.

"You don't have to fix things all our own" says Joe, a farmer on the Yorke Peninsula. Anxiety and depression are part of Joes life but like many on the land, getting help is not an easy or common thing to do.  Taking Stock is a new initiative helping to change that. 

Deep belly breathing, squats and getting up to go for a walk are some tips from Red Bull for anyone who spends a lot of time sitting.  Nothing new, but a reminder to move because it's been suggested that sitting can be as harmful to our health as smoking. 

As we begin to understand more about how loneliness and social isolation affect our mental and physical health, one thing has always been clear.  Having good mates in your life, people you get along well with, someone you trust and can talk openly with will make a big difference.

A simple shift in your mindset could make everyday activities more enjoyable according to organisational psychologist Dr Mike Rucker who 'focuses on the science of fun'.  In the Very Well Mind podcast he speaks about finding what kind of fun is important to you.

"Thing that worked was when they said, We love you and we're scared." Film and tv icon Rob Lowes son, John Owen opening up about his battle with internal thoughts that led to self medicating and alcohol issues.  Addressing these issues John now considers himself 'very lucky'.  

"I’m coming away from these sessions feeling better about myself, feeling like there had been a weight lifted off my shoulders." says Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell.

Did you know that loneliness is common and affects around 1 in 3 adults? Loneliness can happen to anyone at any stage of life impacting on both our physical and mental health.  Volunteering, getting creative and online groups are some tips to help reduce loneliness  

Communicating with others can, at times be a challenge.  For someone with hearing or speech difficulties it can be even more frustrating trying to be heard.  Deafness Forum Australia have a handy fact sheet with useful ideas on how to help the conversations flow so everyone is listened to.

Did you know that each year in Australia over 12,000 people are diagnosed with epilepsy.  Seizures can impact on an individuals work and social life along with their independence. First aid and safety planning when supporting someone with epilepsy is important.  

Lead researcher of the Men's Health Research Program at the University of British Columbia, Dr. John Oliffe, describes self-reliance in males as a double edged sword, 'it can make men more resilient... but it can also lead to unhealthy coping behaviours.'

Dealing with stress, navigating legal issues and building social connections are some of the topics you can learn more about through the free, online Carer Gateway skills courses.  With no registration required, the courses can help guide you in your caring role. 

How would you rate your emotional vocabulary?  Are you able to recognise feelings other than simply happy, sad and angry?  Worth a read is a recent article from Art of Manliness about identifying your emotions and reactions to better manage during the difficult times.

In a recent Healthy Male article, Men’s Health CNC at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, Australia Michael Whitehead writes about effectiveness of health services for men and how a new initiative aims to improve health engagement with men and boys.

The death of someone significant in your life, especially at a young age can sometimes lead to strain and anger in relationships with others throughout life.  Here we share an article about the book 'Spare' by Prince Harry which explores the topic of complicated grief and some theories on what helps 

Health, grief, retirement or difficulties with everyday activities can lead to feelings of social isolation for senior Australians and so R U OK? have developed a new activity book aimed at encouraging us to stay connected with stories, puzzles and conversation tips.

A relationship breakdown, health condition and struggles with addiction provided the motivation for three different men to change aspects of their approach to self care. Spending time outdoors and away from screens are a couple of examples of what can help you relax more often.

Loss, disappointment, pain and sadness are all part of being human.  In a recent article it was asked if men simply respond to these emotions without actually processing them.  Working through grief is challenging for men who are often expected not to show any weakness.

Described as a deeply personal exploration of loss and grief, new podcast 'All there is with Anderson Cooper' features Cooper speaking about the loss of his mother to illness and brother to suicide with guests who share similar stories of grief and loss.

Relationship, financial and work issues can sometimes cause or contribute to the stress and anxiety in our lives.  Chatting with a mate can make a huge difference, R U OK? and Movember have some top conversation tips. 

With International Men's Day just around the corner (Nov 19th) Men Care Too are excited to join Mental Health Carers NSW for final Peak Speaks of 2022 to discuss topics like the 'role of male carers, self-care strategies for men and the intersection of masculinity and caring.'

Born from a conversation at a Melbourne pub, Movember has grown to be a global leader in improving men's health and wellness.  Each year millions of dollars are raised around the world so where does the money go?

A little over 12 months ago R U OK? Community Ambassador Kelly Duhig completed 7 ultra marathons in just 7 days and covered a whopping 350km's.  His mission was to attract attention and start a conversation with the people he met about a deeply personal topic.

It's getting close to that time of year when men push the razors and shaving cream to the back of the bathroom cabinet.  After initially starting in Melbourne, Movember has grown to become a global leader in changing the face of men's health.

Men should be made more aware of the 'effect things like incontinence can have both physically and psychologically' say's Prostate Cancer patient Bob Alchin.  A research project Funded by the Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia, at Canberra Uni aims to help patients better cope & recover.

Make yourself a promise to get more creative, limit media consumption, stay hydrated and look after your mental health.  On World Mental Health day the message to Australians is that we can all do things to help improve our mental health. 

'Tuning into carer lived experience' will be the focus of October's 'Peak Speaks' as Mental Health Carers New South Wales celebrate Mental Health Month and Carer's Week.  The event features a diverse panel and can be attended live or via zoom.

A recent article from Healthy Male highlighted some of the challenges men who live with a disability face and stated that 'Despite how common it is, we still have work to do on how disability is perceived, represented, respected and supported'. An interesting article well worth your time.

Australian show 'Backroads' recently featured a trip to rural town Pinnaroo where they spoke with local men taking part in the 'Men's Challenge' A part of the towns annual show, the challenge encourages men to step out of their comfort zone and get creative as a way to help manage mental health challenges.

During September, Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia are challenging you to conquer 72km in support of Australian men and their families impacted by prostate cancer.  Around 24,000 Australian men will be diagnosed this year, your fundraising provides resources that go towards these men and their families.

"You don’t have to be a heart surgeon to help someone having a heart attack, so why do you have to be an expert to help someone struggling mentally or feeling suicidal?" Words from John Brogden, former politician, patron of Lifeline Australia and himself a survivor of a suicide attempt.

'No matter what type of gambling you do, you should always expect to lose.' This statement on Gamblers Help is a reminder that the odds are often stacked against you when having a bet.  If you think gambling might be a problem for yourself or someone you care for, find help now and get on top of the problem before it gets too big.

Feelings of grief and loss are part of being human but often they are hard to talk about with those closest to us or sometimes we don't have anyone to talk with.  Toll free from 6am to midnight every day of the year you can pick up the phone and call Griefline to talk with someone.

Actor Nathan Kress who played 'Freddie Benson' on the Nickelodeon sitcom iCarly, has spoken on the Verywell mind podcast about being mentally strong as a caregiver.  Married with two daughters, Nathan cares for his wife London who lives with endometriosis. 

During 2020, every 19 minutes, one Australian experienced a stroke for the first time in their life with a quarter of these in people under the age of 54.  It is estimated that around 80% of strokes can be prevented through education and awareness of the risk factors.  Visit the Stroke Foundation website for handy resources.

Of the 116k Australians who experience homelessness, men make up almost two thirds with around 60% of all people under the age of 35.  'To end homelessness we need a plan' is the theme for Homelessness Week 2022 with community events, news and resources to help educate.

Much more than simply playing fetch or going for a walk, man's best friend offers no judgement and risk free support in exchange for a belly rub and treat.  Pets provide a positive way for someone who may struggle to open up or share feelings an opportunity to experience emotional bond.

"You think everyone has their shit together but they don't" - Russell Hagan, founder of 'Been There Done That, Let's Chat' speaking on The Stable Man podcast.  Real men from the construction industry sharing unfiltered, unedited conversations about topics that men often find hard to open up about like abuse, suicide and mental health.

A recent Art of Manliness article highlighted how when an individual takes a stand and points out what might be an inconvenient or unpopular truth, it gives others the permission to do likewise.  Speaking up can be a difficult move, when it feels right, we need to support those who do.

Giving back to the community you live in by volunteering with sport, social or service clubs can be a great way to protect yourself from loneliness and isolation during difficult times.  Mixing up your social circle and trying new activities can also help you develop more long term connections.

Men Care Too are proud to be shortlisted for the 'Men's Health Leaders' Award in the National Men's Health Awards 2022, co-ordinated by the Australian Men's Health Forum
The category recognises initiatives which are "...Making a difference through their commitment, passion and approach to building a better future for men and boys."

The 2022 National Carer Survey is available online and in hard copy formats offering carers around the country the chance to provide feedback and share their experiences to 'help State and Territory Carer Organisations advocate for carers across Australia.'

Our Men's Health Week event in Ulverstone this Wednesday from 6:30pm includes pizza, a screening of the short Aussie film 'Mile an Hour' and a panel discussion on topics such as 'balancing work and family life, managing finances, dealing with setbacks and planning for life after work'.

'Building healthy environments for men and boys' is the theme for National Men's Health Week, held this year from June 13-19.  MHW is a time to highlight the challenges men experience and to promote positive messages of connection and support to Australian men and boys.

Insights from the Australian Men's Shed Association on 'supporting men’s mental health' will feature in a free webinar this Wednesday.  Also on the agenda is a discussion on the latest Ten to Men research findings linked to social connection among adult Australian males.  

People working in transport, warehousing, and logistics often face tight deadlines and long hours.  R U OK? in Trucks and Sheds held on May 17th is a campaign aimed at driving meaningful connection and support in the workplace. 

We all experience self esteem and confidence in different ways at different times.  Sometimes this can be in a negative way and impact on our work, relationships, physical and mental health.  Tips for turning things around include spending time in nature, giving back to your community and accepting yourself for who you are.

Testosterone could have an influence on the development of Alzheimer's disease and researchers have launched an appeal for 'males concerned about their memory, aged 60 to 80, free from any major or unstable medical conditions' to take part in the study.

The first ever Tasmanian Carer Recognition Bill will be a significant acknowledgement of the value and respect for more than 80,000 unpaid, informal, family and friend carers in Tasmania.  With the bill now at a draft stage, the Tasmanian Government is asking for your feedback to help get it right. 

Men's Health Connected is back for 2022 with a gathering of researchers, health service providers and grassroots organisations all working to support and advocate for the health and wellbeing of men and boys in Australia.  Share your experience, learn from others, make new connections and be part of something big.

A Canadian study published recently found that depression and anxiety are more common in men who were less socially active which highlights a need for more focus on men's social support and opportunity.  ABC Radio Nightlife host Philip Clarke spoke on the topic of mateship with guests working on men's wellbeing.

The spotlight will be on Young Carers next week with Carers WA and Lived Experience Australia coming together to host a free webinar for 'service providers, schools, carers or anyone interested in learning more about young carers in our community'.  By definition, a young carer is between 8-25 years of age. 

Developing digital skills and confidence will help you better navigate supports and services online, plus it can also help you to understand what online safety is and how to protect your personal information.  E-Safety is just one of many topics covered by a new Government initiative called 'Be Connected'.

We may think of dogs as man's best friend but did you know they can also be thought of as a 'social facilitator'?  Flynn's Talk recently kicked off season 4 of their podcast with a focus on how animals can support mental and physical health along with their role in helping people form social connections with community. 

A new online space for Tasmanian's called 'PalliHub' is designed to 'Exchange ideas, solve problems and support each other'.  A wide range of topics are covered within the hub and it's expected to be well utilised by 'specialists, general community and people working, volunteering or caring for someone living with a life limiting condition.'

South West Sydney men are sharing their stories about life on a podcast called 'We Are Men'.  Opening up about the ups and downs of life and the things they believe can help men during difficult times, the podcast is aimed at promoting healthy discussions about men's mental health.

A global, virtual event on May 19th will bring together researchers, policy makers and carer advocates to 'be inspired, and make connections that matter for the future of carers everywhere'.  The 'World Carers Conversation' is free to attend and will take place via Zoom and Facebook Live. Proposals to present are open still via link below.

In a study of almost 5000 adults in Denmark over a 26 year period it was found that men who experienced more breakdowns in relationships and spent more time living alone were more likely to have heightened inflammatory markers in their blood, which is often associated with an increased risk of chronic illness or disease.

Shopping, cleaning, preparing meals and medications are on the to do list most days for many carers.  Add to the list school and study around an already busy caring role and there is very little time left.  On average 2-3 young carers are in every Australian classroom, are you a teacher or student who knows a young carer? 

A male carer retreat at Poatina Chalet just a stone's throw away from Tasmania's Great Western Tiers is one of many events planned for family and friend carers in the Apple Isle this year.  From practical skill around managing stress and fatigue to photography, yoga and painting there is plenty of activities to chose from. 

The pandemic has impacted almost all aspects of life in some way and to better understand how the mental health of men and boys has fared, the Australian Men's Health Forum is calling on services and people who work with men and boys to share their insights through focus groups and other means.

Writing, cooking or a social game of basketball could be helpful and healthy activities to try if you want to cut back on your alcohol intake.  A drink to relax or when out socially can be ok but overdoing it can lead to health issues over time.  Find opportunities to enjoy life without the drink.

With Santa due down the chimney soon, there is no doubt you have already been asked if there is anything you want him to bring.  The best present is often something we didn't know we wanted so why not check out these top 50 gift ideas from Art of Manliness and pick out some fun or practical gifts that you can add to your wish list.

It is estimated some members of the free Australian app 'Daybreak' saved around $7k annually by changing their drinking habits.  Alcohol can often be used as a coping mechanism during difficult times or to cope with social anxiety.  Changing your drinking habits can be both financially and physically rewarding over time.   

Did you know that more than 25% of Australian households now contain only one person and even though we are better 'connected' than humans have ever been, making and maintaining a true 'connection' with our friends, family and others is a challenge for many.   Is kindness the cure for loneliness and isolation?

One focus of MCT Monday since our first edition has been to highlight the wide range of formal and informal support options for men.  Thanks to Terry at Mr Perfect many of the services and groups we have featured can be found online in their 'Men's Health Directory'.  Including groups, events and education there is something for every man.

Did you know that around 1 in 20 men experience depression during their partner’s pregnancy and up to 1 in 10 new dads struggle with depression after bub arrives. The theme for Perinatal mental health week (7-14th November) is "Breaking down barriers" and PANDA have a range of resources for Dads.

The past couple years have been challenging and left many of us feeling down, trapped or running on empty at different times.  Join the Mind Blanks 100 stories campaign and help promote messages of hope for anyone doing it tough along with tips and tactics on how to manage stressful situations. 

As Mental Health Month draws to a close we now look ahead to an important time of the year for men - Movember.  Men Care Too are proud to be part of the 'Ulvie Mo Bro' team raising funds that will help develop health and social programs for men around the world.  Join our team, donate if you can and grow your Mo!

Almost 17,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year with around 1 in 6 men likely to be diagnosed by age 85.  Mates Connect is a telephone based peer support service with trained, experienced volunteers who are able to discuss "what to expect and give you an insight into living with prostate cancer." 

2.65 million unpaid carers provide on average 42 million hours of care every week.  It has been estimated that $1.5 billion per week would be the cost to replace the work of our informal care workforce with paid employees.  More than a million reasons why carers should be more valued by government and society. 

The inaugural Launceston Men's 5km walk and BBQ is happening this Sunday at the Hoo Hoo Haven in Mowbray.  Organised by The Men's Table,  the track is suitable for all fitness levels and ages with the walk and BBQ offering men in the North of Tasmania the opportunity to catch up with mates, invite family and friends or meet other local blokes.

Mr Perfect founder Terry sat down recently to have a chat with Jack from Flynn's Talk, a podcast of 'conversations with veterinary professionals, animal lovers, mental health ambassadors & professionals'.  Terry chats openly about his challenges and how Mr Perfect has become a place where men can find community and connection.

A collection of letters written by indigenous fathers and sons has been published in a new book called 'Dear Son'.  Aimed at defying  stereotypes of how first nations men and boys are often viewed by society, the letters offer a heartfelt, proud and honest voice to men and boys with 'something important to say'. 

Aimed at creating an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends along with taking the focus off work, a gathering of around 70 West Australian farmers, some who travelled up to 700kms to be there, is helping rural and regional Aussie men talk with their mates about what's going on in their lives.

RUOK? Day is this Thursday and the 2021 theme is 'Are They Really OK? Ask Them Today'.  Our BBQ in Ulverstone, a collaboration between MCT, Mr Perfect and Central Coast Council aims to promote this message and remind everyone that everyday is a chance to have an RUOK? conversation with someone in your life.

Communities Tasmania are on the lookout for projects or events to support which 'Celebrate and promote the contribution of carers to their communities'.  Carers Small Grants Program aims to improve recognition of carers during National Carers Week and increase awareness of services and supports. 

Men's Resources Tasmania will host a vigil on the lawns of Parliament House in Hobart tonight calling on the Tasmanian Government to "support the development of male-friendly services, a male suicide prevention strategy, and the provision of resources and events that promote improved male wellbeing."

Being able to connect online has become an important part of life but not everyone is able to do this confidently so the Tasmanian Government has developed 'Digital Ready for Daily Life' to help Tasmanian's keep in touch with family and friends, engage with business and health services or even just for entertainment.

'Every stat tells a story' and the 2021 Australian Census is a chance for family and friend carers to be counted.  With almost 11% of the population providing unpaid care to others, stats from the Census can help tell a story of when and where services should be delivered to help those in need.  Make sure that carers are counted on Census night.

Find Help Tas offers a central, online directory of health and social services available in communities around the state.  Searching for help can be time consuming and confusing however the Find Help TAS website offers a simple search function based on category and location making it easier to find help.

"I like it when ..." was the question posed to an online community of family and friend carers recently as part of Carers Week in the UK.  The result is a list of things that carers appreciate others doing for them such as listening, including and even learning about the specific challenges of caring. 

Flynn's Walk started in 2018 to honour Dr Flynn Hargreaves (BVSc) and shine a light on the suicide rate of veterinarians (about four times that of the general population).  Flynn's Talk is a podcast featuring conversations with  animal lovers, professionals and many more.  Grab a coffee or jump on the treadmill and have a listen.

MCT founder Greg shared recently that he has joined the team at RUOK? as a Community Ambassador, a role where he aims to help promote regular, meaningful conversations with others.  You can register for the virtual 2021 campaign launch on this Thursday from 12 noon and find out how to get involved. 

Battling a bout of debilitating anxiety whilst filming a popular national TV show set Brent Draper on a path to seeking help and he is now encouraging others to find the support they need.  Brent is on the latest episode of 'Skip This' a podcast where hosts Browny and Luke explore the world of Mental Health with a wide range of guests.

"One haircut, one conversation at a time." is how New Zealand barber Halene Ikiua​ is trying to help other men turn their lives around for the better.  With time to think during a stint behind bars, Halene gained a new perspective on life.   For him the barbershop is a 'place where pretences are stripped off at the door and honest conversations can happen.'

Dementia Australia volunteer Chris Finley proudly say's that "Volunteering has made my transition form carer much easier".  Confronting but cathartic is how John describes sharing his story and experiences with other men about caring for his late wife Wendy.  Volunteering is a positive way to share your time, skills and knowledge. 

Shame, guilt, anger are the emotions former Wallaby Tony Daly uses to describe how experiencing child sexual abuse made him feel.  Speaking up is hard and can take men up to 25 years to say something.  'Talk to a mate who can relate' is the message from SAMSN because as Tony say's "if you keep hiding it, it's gunna get the better of you"

"My depression doesn't make me weak" Australian television presenter and sports journalist Brad McEwan lost his brother and father to suicide in the space of two years.  Speaking on the Beyond Blue 'Not Alone' podcast Brad talks about the need to shift attitudes that stop many men from speaking up when they are struggling.

Who's on your team? During Men's Health Week, Healthy Male are asking Australian men to think about people who are supporting good physical, emotional, and social health.  Mates, family, colleagues and a GP are a few key members of your team who can help you with staying connected and seeking support early when somethings not quiet right.

"My frustration almost boils over into anger .. but quickly gives way to sorrow when I see mum in the chair, looking slight and self-pitying" Jim Pavlidis reflects on the role and responsibility of caring for his ageing parents.  He also recognises that the "physical demands vary week to week, but the emotional challenges can be the toughest."

Founder of the Tough Guy Book Club Shay Leighton hits the nail on the head in saying that "it’s healthy for men to find an interest outside of work or home, and not everyone is into DIY or sports."  From sci-fi to war stories and classic literature the TGBC offers a chance for men to socialise and have interesting, character driven conversations

Discussion of Tasmanian men in unpaid caring roles will feature this Friday during the free, online Men's Health Connected Summit.  CEO of Carers Tasmania and Care 2 Serve David Brennan will be joined by Care 2 Serve counsellor Michael James and Men Care Too founder Greg Smith to discuss male carers in the Apple Isle. 

Building on the success of last years Men's Health Connected online summit the Australian Men's Health Forum are backing up in 2021 with another free week long online gathering.  With speakers on various themes ranging from health literacy to suicide prevention, the May 10-14 event is a must for anyone working with men and boys.  

The topic of alcohol, drugs and addiction will be the focus during the SANE Australia  anonymous online discussion forum which is on tomorrow evening.  A counsellor from Australia’s leading national addiction treatment, training and research centre, Turning Point will be online to talk about substance use, mental health and recovery.

Facilitated by men for men, a new online support group is providing a space where men can find information and resources to help them better understand and support a partner or family member living with an eating disorder.  Starting in May, Strive4Men will run quarterly and be held via zoom in the late evening.  Visit EDFA for more info.

An article shared by Healthy Male prior to the holiday period aimed at encouraging important conversations offers useful tips that can be used any day of the year.  Normalising healthy habits, learning about your family health history and reaching our to a mate who has been going through a tough time are all important conversations we can have at anytime.

Thank you to Lynne and the team at UK organisation Carers Hearts for sharing interviews with men in caring roles during March.  David and Richard explore what is it like for men in a same sex relationship to navigate social and health supports then in another interview Brian speaks about campaigning to support carers who are working whilst juggling family care roles.

Taking time away from your caring responsibilities can create feelings of guilt, stress and anxiety, I know because I feel it every time I leave the house. What is also true though, is over time the more often you make time to step out of that caring role and take a break, you become a little more at ease doing so.  We had a short break last week with the MCT Mates Day Trip.

'Connecting Men for a Better World' is the aim of the inaugural Online Men's Gathering between March 26-28th.  Featuring workshops, guest speakers, sharing circles and networking sessions on topics such as relationships, finances, art, communication and leadership, the gathering has something for everyone, is free and you can come and go as you please.  

"Do something that is going to put your head in a different space, even for a little while, to take a break from the stress and worry that comes with being a carer".  Greg from MCT recently had a chat with Carers Hearts co-founder Lynne, as part of  a series of workshops, interviews and more to mark Male Carer Month in the UK.  Follow Carers Hearts online for a wide look at the role of family and friend carers.

When you mark Thursday 9th September 2021 in your calendar to celebrate RUOK? Day, set yourself a weekly reminder to check in on a mate, neighbour, colleague or anyone else in your world that you know may be going through a difficult time.  We are all busy in our own worlds but a simple phone call or text message to let a mate know you're thinking of them could change someone's life.   

The 'Man Enough To Care' series of videos are a 'celebration of the love and care and a recognition of the time, energy and personal sacrifice that comes with taking care of someone you love.'  Featuring men from different backgrounds, writing, acting, research and an NFL player, this roundtable discussion sets a new benchmark for how we talk about caring and masculinity.

Explore a 'World class public display of motor vehicles and motorcycles showcasing Australia's motoring heritage' Thanks to Mr Perfect, the MCT "MATES Day Trip' is a chance for men in the North of the state to take a break from regular responsibilities whilst connecting with other blokes who understand how life is a little different when caring for others.

Resource hub K.I.T, developed by Australian mental health and disability support organisation Wellways, aims to encourage connection with others around a wide variety of life challenges.  From mental health and suicide prevention, to tips and ideas for family and friend carers, the Keeping In Touch hub website provides a handy starting point for information and ideas.

This Sunday we are proud to be part of Mr Perfect Ulverstone marking one year since our first BBQ.  With three men at that initial BBQ 12 months ago, we now regularly see around 20 men attending each month for a dose of sunshine, mateship and of course a feed.  Beating isolation and loneliness for Aussie men one snag at a time.

'Parenting Through IIlness' presented by Canteen Community Education is the first in a series of free online webinars aimed at supporting parents and families who are unwell or facing a life limiting illness.  Preparing for an open and honest conversation with your children is one of the key points covered. 

Carers and people living with a disability belong to a group of people likely to experience loneliness according to a new white paper published by Ending Loneliness Together.  The Australian initiative is looking to raise awareness, uncover evidence and build tools to help combat what is one of the leading issues affecting many Australians.

Picking up groceries, running errands or a friendly phone call are just a few examples of the support you can either access, or offer, through the Australian initiative Crisis Heroes.  Built in response to the pandemic, the FREE community platform is helping connect people who are willing and able to provide a helping hand with members of the community who are in need of practical assistance or simply someone to talk with. 

Do you want to be more organised, focused, productive and in control of your days?  One way to achieve this is by developing a routine.  It doesn't need to be a strict, ridged schedule but more a flexible plan that works for you, a guide for how to approach the day or week, so that you can achieve the things you want to get done. 

Pay someone a compliment, open a door or simply smile at a stranger are all easy ways that we can show kindness to others.  This Friday is World Kindness Day and a chance to celebrate all the kind things you see and do everyday that takes on a special importance during difficult times .  And remember that being kind to yourself is okay too.     

Providing connection, tools, stories and inspiration is the aim of Blue Knot Day.  Held on October 28th to recognise the more than 5 million or 1 in 4 Australian adults who have experienced complex trauma in their lifetime.  Abuse and trauma can be difficult to understand, however the Blue Knot Foundation has some helpful tips so you can offer appropriate support to others.

“Incredibly proud to have the title of ‘carer’ for someone who is his best friend” is how Michael Casha describes being part of his brother David's support network.  The past year has seen us all having to adjust to new ways of living and has presented a big challenge to those who are providing unpaid, informal care to someone else.

A double celebration for us here in Tassie this week so we've teamed up with 'Mental Health's Mate' Mr Perfect and the NW Suicide Prevention Trial Site to host a free BBQ breakfast in Ulverstone for  Seniors Week and National Carers Week.  Over 22,000 Tasmanians aged 65 years and older provide unpaid, informal care and support to someone, making a huge difference in the community.  

National Carers Week kicks off next Sunday and one highlight will be the  'Let's Talk About Male Carers' online event hosted by Lane Cove Council.  Relationships Australia NSW counsellor Michael Riley will be talking with men in caring roles about caring from a male perspective.  Visit state or territory Carer Organisations for other events and activities in Carers Week