Three organisations in Suffolk are exploring the mental health challenges faced by men and boys to mark International Men's Day. 

Suffolk Mind, local mental health charity, has joined forces with MANUP? and Guy Cry Club to host 'Being a Man', an event which aims to give men a space to navigate who they are and provide access to organisations offering emotional and practical support.  

The event, at The Hold near Ipswich waterfront on Sunday November 19, will include important discussions, such as challenging the term 'toxic masculinity'.  

Suffolk Archives, a Suffolk County Council service, is providing the venue at no cost to support the event and will facilitate art and storytelling workshops. 

Ezra Hewing, Head of Education at Suffolk Mind

Ezra Hewing, Head of Education at Suffolk Mind, said: "The conversation around men's mental health has recently shifted away from focusing on traditional masculinity as a cause and calling for men to 'open up' as the only solution.  

"We know that most men who go on to die from suicide are already seeking support from agencies. To reduce suicide, we need to start actively asking men if they are having thoughts of suicide when they are most at risk." 

Being a Man will also include workshops on mental health, creativity, male body image and storytelling for dads. 

Ben Driver, director of Guy Cry Club, added: "The term 'toxic masculinity' needs to be examined because it has very quickly become a way to label all behaviours commonly associated with men as toxic. 

"The outdated term gets in the way of healthy and positive displays of masculinity which reflect masculinity's natural diversity." 

Dan Somers, founder of MANUP?, said: "Toxic masculinity is just like the offside rule, no one really know what it actually is.  

"Being a Man will challenge that and look at what really affects men's mental health, as well providing an opportunity to learn how other guys are keeping themselves happy." 

Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities said: "Suffolk County Council is proud to support this initiative through our Archives service, for International Men's Day.  

"The council is committed to promoting and supporting the health and well-being of people in Suffolk. This important event highlights the range of support and activities available to tackle men's mental health challenges." 

Being a Man is free to attend and is taking place between 10am and 4pm.