Promoting Positive Health & Wellbeing on International Men's Day
On 20 November we got together with a group of over 40 men at The Courthouse Shared Space and Creative Hub in Bushmills to celebrate International Men's Day.
We were delighted to welcome guest speakers: Dean Shiels, Liam Hinphey and Gary Rutherford, who joined us in a panel discussion to share their own experiences of addressing challenges to health and wellbeing.
The discussion was expertly facilitated by award-winning presenter and producer, Lynette Fay, who steered our speakers through a range of topics from coping with the pressure of performance in sport and recognising signs someone may be dealing with a problem, to the importance of positive male role models.
"Everyone is a role model to someone, even if they don't know it. Something we all can do is tell those in our lives the influence they have had on us."
Some key takeaways from the discussion include:
- Men's health is an important topic that all speakers were glad to be invited to speak on during the event. It is essential to talk openly and often to breakaway from taboos and encourage others to speak up or seek support if they need it.
- Be willing to show vulnerability. Being vulnerable is not a weakness, it can help you build trust and connection with others, and is key to getting support if you are experiencing a problem.
- It is everyone's responsibility to create an environment where men feel they can open up and ask for help, whether that's in the sports field, at work, at home or in your community.
- Mental health is becoming increasingly prevalent with younger men in particular. Coaches and senior members in sports clubs play an important role not just in encouraging the best performance from these young players, but in helping them build confidence, strengthen their resilience and support their overall development.
- There is no silver bullet. Seeking help, building your capacity to cope and having a plan in place are all key to protecting your mental health and wellbeing through difficult times.
- The signs of mental ill health can present differently; some are open about their feelings, while others can mask their emotions. Support one another by showing interest, checking in and finding ways to develop a deeper connection.
- Looking after your physical health is also very important. Aside from the physical benefits of exercise, it is another way to push yourself and build resilience, as well as connect with others.
- Toxic masculinity can mean different things to different people. Ultimately it is detrimental to men as well as others, as it upholds the bravado culture that can stop men from opening up out of fear of appearing weak. It boils down to attitudes and having respect for others.
Following the panel discussion, award-winning chef, Sean Owens entertained guests with a live culinary masterclass. Sean trained, studied and worked in some of the top establishments in the world, and is now a Culinary Training Officer in the Department of Hospitality Tourism and Events Management at Ulster University, who is dedicated to nurturing young chefs and hospitality professionals here in Northern Ireland. Sean talked us through the bountiful, locally sourced and sustainable produce available right on our doorstep - from prized dollaghan and perch found in Lough Neagh, to cider vinegar made with Armagh apples and artisan salami cured in Moira. Delicious foods packed with healthy fats, omega 3 and all the essential nutrients needed to nurture our bodies and minds!
event photos
Huge thanks to all our guests and graduates for joining us in celebration of International Men's Day. We hope you enjoyed the event and look forward to seeing you at another UU Connects event soon.
This event was organised in partnership with Enterprise Causeway and Causeway Chamber.
Photographer: Ciaran Clancy