Empowering Men’s Mental Health: Advocacy Efforts at Vernon Centre

The conversation around men seeking help for mental health is changing. Jim Swingle, the executive director of Vernon’s Family Resource Centre (FRC), emphasizes that it’s increasingly okay for men to ask for support.

During Men’s Mental Health Week, which runs from June 10-16, the center encourages men in the North Okanagan to reach out for the help they need. FRC provides free and affordable counseling tailored to various challenges such as trauma, stress, grief, anger, and relationship issues.

Some of their services include one-on-one trauma counseling, solution-focused sessions, and workshops like Anger Management and Parenting Through Emotion. They also host a monthly men’s group called Man Cave, which offers a chance for men to connect and share experiences.

“Our doors are open to any man struggling, whether it’s a specific trauma or just the weight of life,” Swingle explains. The center takes a trauma-informed approach, making sure everyone feels safe and respected. Counseling is available both in-person and online, with no referrals required and sliding-scale fees for those in need.

Interestingly, studies show that men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, men comprise only 37% of those who receive mental health treatment in the U.S. This statistic highlights the importance of initiatives like Men’s Mental Health Week, which aim to break down these barriers.

Gabe Newman, a counselor at FRC and leader of the Man Cave group, reinforces this message: “Asking for help isn’t a weakness; it’s strength. There is support, and there is hope.”

FRC is a charitable, non-profit organization dedicated to providing counseling, support groups, and other programs for Okanagan residents. Remember, support is available all year round, not just during this week.

For more details, visit www.vernonfrc.ca or contact them at 250-545-3390 or info@vernonfrc.ca.

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