This week’s guest is Alex Hewitt, founder of AOK events, and he’s come on to talk about how he coped with severe anxiety when his world was crumbling around him. He wants to set a good example for his sons by opening up about his own mental health problems and encourage others to do the same. 

I’ve often wondered if men find it harder than women to talk about depression, anxiety and other mental health problems. Is it because of the traditional alpha male role model that men were expected to fill? I hope that things are changing but we’ve a long way to go.

Many of you have written to me to tell me that your partners don’t understand what you’re going through or that you find it hard to talk to them. This is definitely a topic to explore again in season three. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with your mental health, here are some safe resources for you:

MIND https://www.mind.org.uk

CALM https://www.thecalmzone.net

Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org

Shout https://giveusashout.org

Don’t Ignore the Elephant Knitting pattern 

Use the code DITE for 20% off

Knitting Pattern by Claire Fairall Designs 

All profits go to the Institute of Cancer Research 

Alex Hewitt https://www.aokevents.com

Liz O’Riordan

Instagram @oriordanliz

Twitter @Liz_ORiordan

YouTube @DrLizORiordan

Website www.liz.oriordan.co.uk

Don’t Ignore The Elephant is hosted by Dr Liz O’Riordan, in association with Elizabeth Richards, proudly sponsored by AOK Events, produced by Bird Lime Media.