In Episode 4 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on men's mental health and suicide rates. Acknowledging the cultural and societal expectations surrounding masculinity, they explore how these norms contribute to the struggles men face when seeking help. This episode sheds light on alarming statistics, personal experiences, and the urgent need for more open conversations.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Silent Crisis: An overview of the suicide rates in Canada, where approximately 75% of the 4,000 annual suicides are men.
• Gender Paradox: Discussion of why men are more likely to die by suicide despite women attempting it more frequently.
• Cultural Expectations of Masculinity: How societal norms dictate that men should be strong and self-reliant, making it difficult for them to express vulnerability or seek help.
• Personal Experiences: Mike Gawliuk shares his journey with depression and the societal pressures that discouraged open conversations about mental health.
• The Role of Social Connections: The importance of having supportive relationships and how they differ between men and women.
• Impact of Life Events: How unemployment, relationship breakdowns, and parenting challenges can significantly affect men's mental health.
• Resources for Men: Introduction of various resources such as Heads Up Guys and He Changed It, aimed at providing support and information for men's mental health.
• Workplace Culture: The stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace and how it can prevent men from seeking help.
• Community Awareness: The need for increased awareness and conversation around men's mental health, particularly in light of the current drug crisis affecting men disproportionately.

Important Statistics

• 75% of suicides in Canada are by men.
• 77% of deaths from unregulated drugs in British Columbia are male.
• 80% of these drug-related deaths occur indoors, highlighting issues of isolation.

Takeaways

• Encouragement to Seek Help: Mike emphasizes the importance of reaching out and having conversations about mental health.
• Community Action: Individuals can play a role in fostering community discussions and reducing stigma around mental health issues.
• Resources and Support: Awareness of available tools and websites can help men recognize when they need help and how to access it.

**Additional Resources**
He changed it

Buddy Up

Men's Health Foundation

ingoodcompany.menshealthresearch.ubc.ca

Heads Up Guys

Movember

**General Mental Health Resources:**
If you or someone you know is struggling, CMHA Kelowna's Find Help Now page has a list of emergency and non-emergency resources for individuals of any age. CMHA Kelowna - Find Help Now