It Takes Balls to Talk: Breaking Barriers for Men’s Mental Health

Traditional gender norms hold that "real men" do not show weakness; men's mental health remains a serious concern. Many men suffer in silence, bearing the burden of social expectations to be strong, stoic, and self-sufficient. This silence often comes at a terrible cost: men account for approximately three-quarters of all suicides worldwide. 'It Takes Balls to Talk' is a UK-based mental health charity that takes a position in hopes of breaking down the stigma associated with mental health concerns among males and allowing them to speak openly.

International Men's Day is an annual global event conducted on November 19 to celebrate men's positive achievements while also raising awareness of the difficulties they confront. The theme of International Men's Day 2024 was "Healing and Hope," which connected deeply with the concept of 'It Takes Balls to Talk'.

This charity was founded by Dr. Alex Cotton. Dr. Cotton created this charity after realising how high the statistics were for men who have taken their lives and who had not spoken to any mental health services prior. She had worked in the NHS mental services for over 2 decades, which gave her insight into the amount of help that was needed. Dr. Cotton also highlighted that using sports was a good way to address the importance of mental health in men.

Alex Cotton: Through my experiences as a mental health nurse with the Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of harmful attitudes that prevent men from seeking the help they need. This inspired the creation of It Takes Balls to Talk, a campaign that uses the power of sport to challenge these stigmas and promote open conversations about mental health.

The campaign’s roots are in Coventry and Warwickshire, but its success has opened doors for national expansion, ensuring that more men across the UK have access to vital mental health support.

Sharing my personal story at the event, from the challenges I faced in coming to terms with my own identity to the lessons learnt in my career, was a reminder that open dialogue is crucial—not just for those struggling but for all of us as a society. The support I’ve received from organisations like Warwick University has been instrumental in driving this mission forward.

It Takes Balls to Talk is built on the belief that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that fostering environments where people feel heard and valued can save lives. Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, feels empowered to seek support and find hope.”

Image Credit: It Takes Balls To Talk

It was an idea to meet men where they are, in spaces where they feel most at ease, and encourage them to talk about issues they might otherwise suppress. Through face-to-face interactions at sporting events, the charity’s volunteers provide resources, listening ears, and the message that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but an act of strength

Image Credit: It Takes Balls To Talk 

Society is a major factor in why men would not reach out to receive mental health care. Most males were socialised to view masculinity in terms of emotional toughness. Sayings like "man up" and "boys don't cry" tend to encourage the belief that a vulnerable man is a man emasculated. This stigma isolates them from seeking treatment for the problem.

Sports have traditionally been a positive force that creates a sense of community. 'It Takes Balls to Talk' uses sports as a way to reach guys who might not participate in mental health initiatives. This charity works with local clubs and professional teams to bring about more awareness about men’s mental health.

Volunteer James Taylor gave a statement: “Talking to one of the volunteers that day was a turning point for me. They didn’t judge or try to fix things; they just listened. That small act of kindness gave me the courage to seek further support, and it changed my life.I see firsthand how impactful these conversations can be. It’s incredible to watch someone go from feeling isolated to realising they’re not alone and that help is available.”

People who volunteer at the charity are trained to reach out and approach observers, players, and staff members during the game by handing out leaflets with information about local mental health options. They also try and encourage men to take the step forward towards getting help.

One of their key messages is that mental health issues are no less real than physical ones, and the mind,like a pulled muscle,needs care and support.

International Men's Day was a good opportunity to draw attention to men's mental health and the innovative work of charities such as 'It Takes Balls to Talk'. This event is held annually in over 80 countries and raises awareness of the mental health gaps and encourages men to accept all-around health.

The 2024 theme was "Healing and Hope,” which fits perfectly with the charity's objective. It promotes the idea that no matter how difficult life becomes, healing is possible, and hope is always within reach. For 'It Takes Balls to Talk', this internationally recognised awareness day is a celebration not just of progress but a call for action to society to further its support for men.

You can volunteer, donate, or spread the word to help them achieve their goal.

Check out the 'It Takes Balls to Talk' website or follow them on social media.

https://ittakesballstotalk.com/

Pey Enigbokan