Two different monthly men’s mental health meetups are continuing their joint effort to provide men the chance to share their experiences with each other and find support from within their community. About 20 men have regularly taken advantage of each of the sessions each month, which are sponsored by the Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) program and Macon Mental Health Matters.

This month’s Men’s Mental Health Meet-up – themed as “Mens-giving” – will be held on Monday, November 24, at Serenity Entertainment Complex (427 Poplar Street) groups from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. 

“Health is our biggest flex, and we are trying to help every man live their healthiest life,” says Anthony Howard, owner of Serenity. “We want to be a sanctuary for men to come and engage, fellowship, and network.”

“This month is especially important as many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, increasing their susceptibility to sadness, irritability, low energy, and changes in sleep and appetite,” says Andrea Cooke with Macon Mental Health Matters. “With it being National Men’s Health Awareness Month, we are encouraging men to take a moment and examine where they are mentally and physically, and then to take steps to make changes that lead to long-term strength and stability.”

“The reception to these meetups has been great with the numbers of guys that show up, but it’s been even more successful because of the support and assistance they receive while there,” says MVP Coordinator Jeremy Grissom. “True, meaningful connections have been made, and we’ve heard some amazing stories about how each has overcome challenges.”

At the most recent meeting at the end of October, the gathered group of men varied in age, backgrounds, professions, family status, where they grew up, and more. The were gathered and talked about anxiety. They shared thoughts on what anxiety means to them, where it comes from, how they cope with it…or how they are unable to cope.

“Things in life keep piling up, especially as a man,” one said, with others shaking their heads in understanding. “And it needs to get out. It’s different for every person how it manifests, but it will come out.”

Another, still nodding, chimed in on how it happens for him as well as how groups like this help. “My heart races, I can’t sleep, and I snap at coworkers and my family. It’s meetings like this, though, that help relieve the pressure and help me find ways to cope.”

“You know what comes first? Knowing who you are, so take the time to learn and love yourself,” one man said. “You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you are something to someone. So, take care of yourself.”

To read more about the October meeting, click here.