Menfulness: A Journey Towards Men’s Mental Health

“We’re not solving anyone’s problems, but they don’t have to face them alone,” reflects Jack Woodhams, co-founder of the mental health charity Menfulness. This simple yet profound assertion encapsulates the ethos of a community-focused initiative born from the struggles of new fathers in York.

The Birth of an Idea

Ten years ago, Jack Woodhams was just a man trying to navigate the complexities of fatherhood while managing work and personal life demands. Struggling with his mental health, he found himself in what he describes as “low places.” During this challenging period, Jack noticed a glaring absence of support services for men, especially new fathers who often felt isolated during the early stages of parenthood.

Recognizing his struggles, Jack’s wife encouraged him to connect with other new dads. Surprisingly, this small catalyst led to the inception of Menfulness. What began as casual coffee meet-ups among sleep-deprived fathers soon evolved into a more structured network aimed at providing emotional and mental support.

A Decade of Growth

Fast-forward a decade, and Menfulness is now a registered charity dedicated to men’s wellbeing, serving “hundreds” of individuals across North Yorkshire. The organization is led by Jack, alongside a dedicated team comprising Mike Hewitt, Dan Braidley, Matty Lewis, and Sam Watling. Their collective goal is to provide a safe space where men can access counselling and support activities, irrespective of their role as fathers.

Recently, Menfulness expanded its reach to Scarborough, backed by institutional support from the Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board and York St John University. This expansion reflects the growing recognition of men’s mental health and the need for dedicated services.

Community and Connection

Menfulness thrives on the power of community. Jack emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive environment, stating, “It’s something we’re really proud of – it’s for guys to support each other and realize they’re not alone.” Through various activities, such as their “Walk n Talk” sessions, men can engage in open dialogues about their experiences, balancing the realities of fatherhood and mental health.

The organization also collaborates with local initiatives like Yorkey Dads, which emerged from the original coffee meet-ups. This group further enhances peer support, offering activities like “Hair School,” teaching fathers to style their children’s hair. This not only builds skills but strengthens the bonds among dads.

Normalizing Mental Health Conversations

The stigma around men discussing their emotional health remains pervasive, but Menfulness is on a mission to change that. Jack advocates for normalizing therapy as a common resource, akin to going to the gym or grocery store. “We’re trying to normalize that and say that accessing therapy is pretty cool and it’s normal,” he asserts.

This approach fosters an environment where men can openly talk about their feelings without judgment. Jack believes this openness acts as a “superpower”, enabling men to support one another and break down emotional barriers.

Recognizing Contributions to Mental Health

Jack’s dedication to mental health advocacy has not gone unnoticed. In November, he was honored with an honorary degree from York St John University, recognizing his impactful work in the mental health sector. This accolade is not just a personal achievement but a tribute to the collective efforts of the Menfulness team. “It shows that it makes a difference, and it means everything to me.”

Many students at the graduation, who had volunteered with Menfulness as part of their psychology courses, reinforce the tangible impact the charity has within the community.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Jack expresses optimism about expanding Menfulness’s reach, especially with new initiatives in Scarborough. As part of Mayor for York and North Yorkshire David Skaith’s mental health drive, the organization is poised to extend its influence further into the region. “Who knows in the next 10 years, but the fact we’re part of the conversation is wonderful,” he remarks.

Ultimately, Menfulness is about creating a community where men feel empowered to share their struggles. The fundamental message remains clear: “It’s not rocket science – it’s a bit of a superpower, talking, and when you realize that, it makes a huge difference for us guys.”

This community-driven initiative exemplifies the importance of connection and support in mental health, paving the way for a more open future regarding men’s emotional wellbeing.