Movember Initiative: NHS Employees Share Mental Health Experiences

With the Movember campaign in progress, two individuals employed by the NHS have shared how discussing their mental well-being has transformed their lives. Jon Staple and Dairin Keating, both staff members at the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, have faced challenges with their mental health. The Movember charity, which promotes men growing beards during November to generate funds for initiatives supporting men’s health, provided an occasion for these men to disclose their personal experiences. Mr Staple commented: “Everyone’s mental health is different, and it’s so important to talk and share – if this helps just one person, then I’ll be happy.” He further stated: “Over the last year, I’ve gone from quite low to really quite high.” He recounted that following the passing of his mother-in-law, and subsequently his friend, he perceived his life was not progressing as he wished. Gradually, he rediscovered enjoyment through engaging in DIY projects and gardening. “You’ve got to help yourself, and that opens up others to help you too,” Mr Staple remarked. Recently, Mr Keating established a Men’s Network within the trust, aiming to provide support for individuals such as Mr Staple. He disclosed that he endured significant bullying during his formative years, following his diagnosis with non-Hodgkins Lymphomia. He elaborated: “When I went back to school, I was a lot shorter than most of the boys in my year, as such I was unfortunately bullied a lot.” “There were a few times boys from the older year groups would stick up for me, because they understood what I had gone through. “I think that’s affected me in some ways – I feel a need to protect the vulnerable in my life now,” he added. Within the framework of the Men’s Network, a tool shed was established, enabling members to exchange and lend spare tools and engage in conversations about their common interest in DIY. He stated: “I’m very in touch with my emotions and I’m not afraid to let that show – I’ll cry at the silliest of things.”