Episode summary introduction:

Join TC & Maddog this episode as they continue their dialogue into Men’s mental health and deeper, the emotional challenges to  the spectrum of the very human experience  of suicide.

The title of this episode comes from Metallica’s 2023 song.  The song is about the "taboo word of suicide" and to communicate the "darkness we feel inside of us", further adding how people cannot deny that they have had dark thoughts at one point in their lives. In the same statement he continues:

"To face it is to speak the unspoken. If it's a human experience, we should be able to talk about it. You are not alone."

Joining TC & Maddog is G-Train who we welcome to our podcast for the second time.  

In this episode G-Train shares his own challenges with mental health and how calling the help line allowed him to reach out and get the support he needed.  G-Train serves as an inspiration for those struggling themselves to take action and reach out. 

The episode encourages others to engage in the dialogue into Men’s mental health.

Thought for the Day:

“If you don’t work on keeping good mental health,  in the end nothing works. “

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The importance of learning the signs when one is faced with emotional turmoil;
• Normalizing the fact that most if not all of us struggle with our mental health at one time or another in our lives. 
• Why men hesitate to reach out when they are struggling;
• .G-Train's personal experience in his struggles to reach out when he was in a time of need and what he did;
• How to have a conversation with someone you believe is struggling;
• Encouraging more men to engage in the dialogue.
• A heartfelt message from Adrian Francis’ sister, Raevin, that really hits home:

“Talking about checking in with mental health awareness is wonderful but sharing a few words on how to respond when someone reaches out to you and knowing the signs.  A lot of people do not know how to respond or see the signs when someone is struggling…Deep down, when things get serious and someone opens up knowing how to respond can be helpful. Responding in a thoughtful and compassionate way can make a difference to someone who is struggling.”

Walkabout takeaways:

• In this podcast episode, we emphasize the importance of mental health discussions among men, encouraging open dialogues about personal struggles.
• We highlight that no individual should have to navigate life's challenges in isolation, stressing the value of community support.
• Our conversation aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding men's mental health, advocating for vulnerability and the expression of emotions.
• We recognize that reaching out for help is a courageous step and crucial for personal well-being, particularly in moments of despair.

Help is available-Speak with someone today

Anywhere in Canada:  9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline

• Creating a supportive environment for young men in sports is critical to encouraging them to share their feelings and seek help when necessary.
• “Learn the Signs:

It may not be obvious when a person is suicidal but learning the specific warning signs can help you notice when a person may be at risk.

Not everyone who shows a warning sign is considering suicide.”

Please go to this website  “https://11ofus.edmonton.ca/” 

Men’s Mental Health Resources:

“Heads up Guys”

https://headsupguys.org/depression-in-men/ 

And Finally, check out this website for more information and resources:

“UBC Men’s Health Research Program”

https://menshealthresearch.ubc.ca/resources/ 

More about E-Walkabout:

To learn more about Electronic Walkabout visit us at   www.ewalkabout.ca.

If you want to read more “Thoughts of the Day” check out TC’s Book at Amazon:

“St. Mike's Fortunes”

Special thanks to:

Brittany Dueck, the Valley Huskers’ social media person who was instrumental in putting this series together and letting people know about them through social media channels.

Steven Kelly, our technical advisor, who keeps trying to teach these old dogs new tricks when it comes to sounds and recording!!

“Remember to take advantage of the moment before the moment takes advantage of you!”