Emyvale native Fin McKenna-Fox is on a mission to encourage more men to 'speak out' and 'seek support' when it comes to their mental health. The father-of-four is using experiences from his own mental health and well-being journey to encourage other men to break away from the stigma attached to opening up about how they are feeling or concerns which may be weighing heavily on their shoulders. According to the local men's coach and health and wellness consultant, many men, especially fathers are struggling in today's society. This is due to a number of reasons such as; Trying to excel in their careers, trying to provide for their families, trying to be a loving & supportive partner, trying to be a present and connected father, while also looking after their own physical, mental and emotional health. As a result, he has teamed up with SOSAD Monaghan for the 'Our Men Matter' initiative which starts on the 18th of July and will last for eight weeks. Speaking to Northern Sound, Fin highlighted that for many who are struggling, the first step in seeking help is the hardest.
Despite this, he as encouraged local men to avail of this new course, adding that "you don't have to wait to be broken until you fix yourself." Fin continued; "The hardest step you take is that first step. One of the things that I have witnessed time and time again over the years, is that as soon as men get into a room with other men in a safe space, they realise that it's not just them who are facing certain challenges. Being able to hear other people's stories and feel support from men who are on a similar journey to you is extremely healing and it's such a beneficial thing to do. It's so important to just reach out." For more information you can contact Fin via his business page 'The Grounded Masculine' on social media or you can make contact with Fin through Monaghan SOSAD. The eight-week programme which starts on July 18th will entail weekly exercise, ways to improve your diet, stress management, understanding your emotions, developing mental load, friendships with like-minded men, and a hike to Bragan Mountains.
