Dan founder of BIA

Over the years, I've observed that we, as men, often struggle to express our emotions or articulate our troubles. This is not simply a personal observation; it is a societal narrative that encourages us to 'man up', remain stoic, and carry on. However, there is an increasing recognition of the importance of emotional intelligence and seeking help when we're emotionally overwhelmed. Alternatives to harmful coping mechanisms like alcohol, drugs or gambling are becoming more widely acknowledged.

The widespread belief that men should suppress their emotions has led us to discussions dominated by football or current affairs rather than personal experience. Encouraging an open dialogue about mental health among men can offer support and self-management strategies for those in distress.

Unfortunately, suicide remains the leading cause of death among men under 45 in the UK - a harrowing statistic that I myself nearly contributed to at 40 years old. Through a decade and a half of introspection and communication with others, I learned to manage my mental wellbeing and find inner peace.

Many men do not have the luxury of time for such introspection before their struggles escalate into life-threatening crises. It's crucial we reach these individuals earlier on their journeys when they're beginning to experience these issues.

As one such man who once believed seeking help was an admission of weakness or fear of judgment, it took me years to understand that reaching out is not only acceptable but often necessary.

This understanding forms the foundation for Brothers in Arms' mission: providing resources for prevention through self-management before crisis strikes - akin to throwing someone a lifebuoy before they start drowning instead after they are already struggling in deep waters.

We offer tools and support services aimed at helping men manage mental health challenges triggered by diverse causes including childhood trauma like mine which eventually led me being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder five years ago. It was the birth of my first daughter that deterred me from suicide; without her, I might not have been here today.

Despite societal progress in addressing mental health over the last decade, there still remains a gap in facilitating open discussions about men's mental health. The societal expectations that men should be stoic figures immune to emotional distress can amplify male identity crises and worsen mental health outcomes.

At Brothers in Arms, we propose a shift from expecting men to seek help face-to-face to using technology as a platform for them to express their feelings. The use of technology could not only change how we listen but also where we listen - facilitating more comfortable environments for men struggling with their mental health.

Many times it has been said that 'men can't talk about their mental health because they are not shown how'. It’s time for us to change this narrative by validating emotions and promoting open communication among all individuals regardless of gender. By becoming positive male role models for young men, we aim to foster healthy relationships and push towards equality where everyone succeeds together.

We believe that providing digital tools that offer privacy and confidence can significantly improve how men manage their lives leading them away from tragic ends like suicide which often seem like the only escape during times of severe distress.

The idea of Brothers in Arms emerged against this backdrop as an online sanctuary offering information, stories, support services, and resources dedicated especially to men's well-being. By leveraging technology and developing digital tools for managing mental fitness - we aim at fostering positive changes among struggling individuals as well as those who support them.

We want men to feel they are not alone and can be part of something where support is available, that can prevent the descent into negativity sometimes experienced by those struggling with mental health issues.