Harvey Men’s Shed gather to discuss the importance of mental and physical health
Tea, coffee, and good company are regular fixtures of Men’s Sheds across the State.
But one South West Men’s Shed went one step further last week, delving into the importance of mental and physical health with a special presenter discussing their own personal challenges.
The Harvey Men’s Shed hosted local mental health advocate Tiny Holly, who shared his personal journey with depression to the group of blokes, to highlight the importance of mental health awareness.
Mr Holly said he had always been open about his battle with depression, describing himself as a “depression survivor”.
Camera IconTiny Holly leading his discussion about his journey with mental health. Credit: Craig Duncan
From his struggles through school, to battling diabetes, Mr Holly is a proud advocate encouraging what can be difficult conversations for many — especially in small, proud communities like Harvey.
“Everyone needs their eyes open sometimes, and that’s what this is all about,” he said.
Mr Holly said it was particularly important for the older demographics often associated with Men’s Sheds to be aware of the reality of mental health to better support family and friends.
“In the past, if someone’s son, or grandson came to them and said ‘I’m suffering, they would have been told to get on with the job and not be weak,” he said.
Camera IconTiny Holly started his discussion reflecting on how lucky he feels every day he wakes up. Credit: Craig Duncan
“But it’s not a weak thing, it’s a chemical imbalance.
Mr Holly was invited by shed member Ted Watt, who said it was important to have open conversations about mental health because so many men bottle up their feelings.
Fellow member and retired dermoscopist Collin Beauchamp said the desire for men to bottle up issues with health extends beyond just mental health, with personal experience seeing many ignoring their physical health often until it is too late.
The Cookernup resident has dedicated his life to helping people across the country prevent or treat their skin cancer before it’s too late.
“I can tell you, research shows us that 78 per cent of men do not go to any sort of skin screening or report any medical condition, unless they are forced to by their wife,” Mr Beauchamp said.
Mr Watt said he too had avoided the doctor for the longest time until pressure from his wife forced him to go.
“I chose my doctor and I opened up completely, which is unusual for me, but I went into everything,” he said.
“That was a hallelujah moment for me.”
Harvey Men’s Shed president Jeff Gale said having an open, welcoming place for men to gather and discuss important issues was the fundamental core of all Men’s Sheds.
He is proud the still new shed could give to its members with presenters such as Mr Holly sharing his wisdom.
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