SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- June is Men's Mental Health Month, and according to Anxiety and Depression Association of America, one in 10 men experience some form of depression or anxiety. But less than half seek treatment.
Oaklawn's Youth Mobile Response Team Leader Derrick Perry says it’s critical to check in on the boys and men in your life and guide them to speak up and get help if needed.
He says more resources are urgently needed for men, especially those carrying unresolved childhood trauma that now impacts their relationships, families, and emotional health.
Perry says it's okay not to be okay, but it’s not okay to not want to be okay.
"There's a huge gap that needs to be addressed, especially when no one expects men to struggle. People expect men to go to work, take care of the family, pay the bills, and continue to smile," Perry said.
In 2011, Levi Lewis started up Men's Talk to help break barriers and create a safe space for men to open up.
The group meets twice a month to help each other to talk, listen and grow together as a brotherhood.
"We're not psychiatrists, we're not psychologists. We're just men with experiences in life that allow us to connect with each other, so we're able to encourage each other keep a positive conversation, and we talk about things that are uplifting and inspiring," Lewis said.
Lewis says the group has plans to expand the group to Mishawaka, Elkhart, and surrounding areas in Michigan.