James Donaldson on Mental Health - ‘Hey man, you matter’ event aims to break stigma, connect men with mental health resources

By Juwan Allen MARIETTA, Ohio (WTAP) -A local suicide prevention group is using a community event to encourage men to talk openly about mental health and seek help before a crisis hits.

Leanne Price, treasurer of the Washington Suicide Awareness Alliance of Washington County, said the goal of the “Hey man, you matter” event is to raise awareness and make it clear that speaking up is a sign of strength, not weakness.

“Men often won’t talk about their feelings,” Price said.

“So today we’re just trying to make awareness that it’s okay to talk about it.” Price said stigma can keep men from reaching out, especially if they believe being honest about depression or suicidal thoughts will make them “appear weak.” But she said communities should “respect men who aren’t afraid to talk about their feelings.” Organizers also tried to make the event practical by surrounding attendees with options and support, including vendors and community groups that can help men find activities, resources and connection.

Price said the event included local organizations offering outdoor activities at the Broughton Center, health care-related resources, leadership support through Elevated Influence, and community partners like 250 America representing Washington County.

Price said part of the message is recognizing that depression in men can look different — sometimes showing up as anger or aggression.

“Oftentimes the man who is struggling will come across as being really angry all the time or aggressive, and that’s really depression,” she said.

For Price, the work is also personal.

She said she is driven by the loss of her son to suicide and hopes to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak.

“I lost my son to suicide and I don’t want another parent to have to feel like I do,” Price said.