Unfortunately, I recently learnt what it feels like to lose a good friend to suicide. The feeling is horrible, sickly, but nothing compared to the pain that they must have felt to think that the only way to stop it is to take their own life.

Suicide is the biggest killer of men in the UK. In 2021, 3852 men died by suicide. Men accounted for 74% of UK suicides in 2021.

ANDYSMANCLUB has over 120 free support groups nationwide, running every Monday from 7PM (except bank holidays). In these groups, men can open up about the storms affecting their lives in a safe, judgement-free and non-clinical environment. Their clubs are designed to be free of pressure, there is no obligation for men to speak, they can simply listen if they wish.

On 20th August I will be riding 108 miles, from Lancaster to the Lake District, and back. I will be doing this to raise awareness for ANDYSMANCLUB, and if I can raise a bit of cash along the way, that would be a huge bonus. Below is a link to ANDYSMANCLUB official website, where you can find what they do and where they do it.

Remember, it’s OK, to not be OK. Talking about your problems won’t necessarily make them disappear, but they will make you realise that you’re not alone in feeling that way. If a friend or family member asks you how you’re feeling, be honest. Don’t put on a brave face if inside you’re crying eyes out. A 10-minute chat about what’s really going on in your life might change your whole outlook.

We may not have seen each other, or even spoken, for a long time, but I’ll always be available for a natter. Pick up the phone and give me a shout.

Thank you,

Ash

#ITSOKTOTALK

https://andysmanclub.co.uk/