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Breaking the Silence: Alumnus Gert-Jan Verellen's Initiative for Men's Mental Health Awareness
Men's Mental Health Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness and provide support. Gert-Jan Verellen, who is an alumnus of MacLachlan, is taking the initiative to kickstart this dialogue within our community. During a recent alumni meeting, GJ emphasized the significance of addressing uncomfortable topics related to men's emotions. He stressed the need for safe spaces and resources for men to openly discuss their emotions.
"In my younger years, I wish I had known that it's okay to experience a range of emotions. It's normal to feel angry, anxious, or depressed, just as it is to feel happy and excited. When overwhelmed by negative emotions, I found that physically exhausting myself and taking deep breaths helped. Reminding myself that "this too shall pass" brought comfort, knowing that negative emotions are temporary. On the other hand, I learned to savour positive moments, understanding that they too are fleeting.
During my youth, I managed to keep myself occupied with school, work, and spending time with friends. Although I did experience negative thoughts and depressive feelings, being engaged in subjects I was genuinely interested in made going to school more enjoyable. Of course, there were moments of stress and anxiety, but ultimately, I felt a sense of pride in graduating and achieving my personal goals rather than conforming to others' expectations.
I sincerely hope that society will foster an environment where discussing mental health is free of stigma, particularly for men. It is disheartening to witness men being told to "man up" or "suck it up" instead of acknowledging their emotions. Vulnerable men often face ridicule or are not given a platform to express themselves. It is my genuine hope that we can come together and recognize that everyone faces challenges and that addressing the underlying causes is crucial. Personally, opening up to those around me has greatly aided my mental well-being, and I wish the same support for others."
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