If there’s one thread that goes through every discussion at the monthly Men’s Mental Health Meet-up, it’s “You are something to someone.” It doesn’t matter the topic nor who attends, the men spend that hour and a half uplifting each other, listening to their stories, and providing a level of support they say they can’t find elsewhere.
Even after nearly three years of monthly meetings, though, and with similar threads running through them…they can still feel fresh and new. There is still space for the group to step back and start over with introductions, back stories, and new connections.
They are still a space where men who have never been are made to feel welcome, made to feel like one of the group, and made to feel comfortable enough to share their doubts and concerns
On the fourth Monday of the month, about two dozen men of varying ages, careers, situations, and background gather at Serenity Entertainment Complex. The meetups are open to the public, and the next will take place on Monday, June 22 at Serenity’s NEW location at 382 Cherry, Suite B from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
They are hosted by the Macon Violence Prevention and Macon Mental Health Matters programs, and discussions are facilitated by Stacey Phillips with Clasped Hands Counseling, LLC.
The foundation for these meetings and the support begins with the idea that “You need to have that grace for yourself.”, and you must “Secure your mask first.”
“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.”
“True, meaningful connections have been made, and we’ve heard some amazing stories about how each has overcome challenges,” says MVP Coordinator Jeremy Grissom.
Each month, the meetings end late because of the depth of the discussion…and the deeper they get, the more the men want to talk. When it’s all over, men who have started as strangers are saying goodbye with a hug and encouraging words.
“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,” adds Grissom.
From the men who attend on what the meetings mean to them?