Matthew Bunn Health correspondent Sunday, June 21, 2015
8:00 AM
Public health bosses in Suffolk have today urged fathers across the county to seek help and support if they are feeling lonely.
The call has formed part of a county-wide campaign highlighting men’s health and has been raised ahead of Father’s Day on Sunday in response to research showing connections between loneliness and poor mental health.
According to the Mental health Foundation there are links to depression, anxiety, paranoia and it can even be a contributory factor to suicide. Key events which could cause those feelings, according to the Samaritans, include losing a job, the death of a loved one and divorce or separation.
Tony Goldson, cabinet member for health at Suffolk County Council, which is responsible for public health, said: “There are many competing factors that can put pressure on men, both at home and at work.
“Combine this with the general tendency for men to be less open about their emotional and mental health, and it is clear that loneliness can go undetected for a considerable time and store up real problems in the longer term.
“That’s why it’s important to remember that there is plenty of support available both from families and friends, and also opportunities for fathers to meet, compare experiences and make friends.
“I would encourage Suffolk fathers to take this opportunity to think about their wellbeing, to talk about their mental health with others and to find out about the many options for taking action that are presented as part of this campaign.”
There are a number of groups available in Suffolk for men, including at the county’s children’s centre, where there are opportunities to meet other parents and get face-to-face support.
There is also a Befriending Scheme running in the county, which aims to provide friendship and learning opportunities for adults.
Among its members is Dennis Avery, of Cavendish. The former City worker was diagnosed with a very rare brain tumour in 2004.
Despite it being benign it had to be operated on and he was unable to work after and was cared for by his wife and two daughters and depended on them for social interaction.
He said: “The problem with a brain illness is that you feel like you are in a cocoon and you don’t feel like anyone can understand what you are going through.”
Mr Avery joined the Befriending Scheme about six months ago and in that time he has already started to see improvements.
He added: “They have got a good mix of people here. It makes you realise that your illness is not as bad as you think. I’ve realised that I am getting better and that is what is important.”
For more information about activities available in Suffolk, visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/helpforadults
Men urged to seek help and support if they are lonely in Father"s Day health message
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