West Midlands Men Use Personal Experiences to Tackle Mental Health Stigma
A powerful new initiative is targeting young men across the West Midlands, encouraging them to seek mental health support through a free and confidential text service. The campaign leverages the personal stories of local men to break down barriers and inspire others to start conversations about their wellbeing.
Free 24/7 Text Support Service Available
Anyone feeling stressed, low, or withdrawn can connect with a trained mental health professional by texting 'Space' to 85258. This service is completely free, off-bill, confidential, and operates around the clock, providing a discreet and accessible option for those who may not feel comfortable speaking on the phone or meeting in person.
Personal Stories Driving Change
Three men from the region are at the heart of this campaign, each sharing their unique experiences to challenge stigma and motivate others to take that crucial first step.
Anthony Taylor, an 18-year-old from Dickens Heath, joined the effort after enduring severe bullying in his youth. "I don't want anyone to struggle the way I did - no one should feel alone with their mental health," he emphasized, highlighting the importance of early intervention and support.
Junaid Mahmood, a 30-year-old resident of Alum Rock, pointed out the vital need to address stigma within the Muslim community. As someone working in mental health services, he noted, "the community and culture I come from are not highly represented in services – not because support isn't needed, but because stigma still exists." He believes the text service offers a valuable, low-pressure entry point for those hesitant to seek help.
Blaine Rowe, a 23-year-old professional footballer for Kettering Town and coach from Bromsgrove, addressed the pressures in sports. "Football has always been a place of strength, resilience and togetherness, but too often it's also a place where men – especially young players – feel they have to suffer in silence," he explained. Rowe advocates that speaking up is a sign of bravery, not weakness.
Campaign Background and Outreach
This service is a partnership between the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Shout, the UK's first 24/7 text messaging support service, launched in August last year. To date, it has supported nearly 700 people across the region. However, statistics show that around 70 percent of users have been women and young girls, prompting this targeted campaign to engage more young men.
To amplify the message, advertisements featuring Blaine, Anthony, and Junaid will be displayed on billboards and outdoor sites throughout the month. Key locations include areas near Villa Park, St Andrew's, Birmingham City Centre, and local mosques, ensuring visibility in community hubs and places frequented by young men.
By sharing these authentic stories, the campaign aims to normalize mental health discussions and provide a lifeline for those in need, fostering a more supportive environment across the West Midlands.
