Shine A Light on Men's Mental Health

June marks Men's Health Awareness Month, an opportunity to focus on an issue that continues to affect thousands of men across Ireland every year – mental health.

While awareness has improved significantly in recent years, many men still struggle in silence, often finding it difficult to talk about their feelings, seek support or ask for help when they need it most. This week's edition of Shine A Light with Siobhan Murphy explored the challenges facing men today and highlighted the organisations and individuals working to make a difference here in County Wexford.

A Growing Conversation

The theme of Men's Health Week 2025 is "Shoulder-to-Shoulder: Connecting for Health", highlighting the importance of connection, support and early intervention. Research continues to show that men are often less likely to seek help when facing physical or mental health challenges, with stigma and societal expectations remaining significant barriers.

According to the latest Healthy Ireland Survey, 12% of people in Ireland are currently experiencing a probable mental health difficulty, while overall mental wellbeing remains below pre-pandemic levels.

Man Up: A Safe Space for Men

Two of the guests featured on the programme were Mark and Dean, founders of Man Up, a support group established specifically to provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for men.

The group was created after recognising that many men were struggling to find somewhere they felt comfortable opening up about their mental health, relationships, work pressures and personal challenges.

What makes Man Up particularly unique is its commitment to ensuring men can access professional counselling supports quickly when needed. By bridging the gap between peer support and professional intervention, the group aims to ensure no man is left feeling isolated or unsupported.

Bow Tie Dip in the Nip Returns

The programme also heard from Bernard McGuinness, organiser of the annual Bow Tie Dip in the Nip fundraising event.

Now entering its third year, the event has become a popular and important fundraiser for It's Good To Talk, a charity dedicated to supporting positive mental health and wellbeing in local communities.

This year's dip will take place on July 18th at Rosslare Strand, with Bernard hoping to see even greater participation from men across the South East.

While the event is known for its humour and community spirit, the message behind it is serious: encouraging men to talk openly about mental health and helping to fund services that support those who may be struggling.

Bernard believes that events like the Bow Tie Dip help break down barriers and remind people that mental health conversations don't have to happen in clinical settings—they can begin anywhere.

Mental Health in Rural Ireland

The final guest on the programme was Jer O'Mahony, Environmental Chair of Wexford IFA, who spoke about the unique pressures facing men in rural communities.

For many farmers and rural workers, long hours, financial uncertainty, isolation and working alone can create additional challenges when it comes to mental wellbeing.

Jer highlighted how men in farming communities are often accustomed to dealing with problems independently and may be reluctant to discuss personal difficulties.

His advice was straightforward: stay connected, keep talking and look out for neighbours, friends and family members.

Support is Available

One of the strongest messages from all three guests was that no one should feel they have to face mental health challenges alone.

Whether through community groups such as Man Up, fundraising initiatives like Bow Tie Dip in the Nip, local sporting organisations, farming networks or professional counselling services, support is available.

Pieta 24/7 Crisis Helpline – 1800 247 247

Futures In Mind (formerly Talk to Tom) – 0818 303 061

Wexford MarineWatch – 087 952 3899

Wexford Mental Health Association – 053 914 0610

Samaritans (24 hours) – 116 123

Aware Support & Self-Care Line – 1800 80 48 48

50808 Crisis Text Service – Text HELLO to 50808

Grow Mental Health – 0818 474 474

Suicide or Survive (SOS) – 01 272 2158

This programme is funded by the news reporting scheme