Men’s Support Group – creating a safe space

31 July 2023 | Support

Brain Tumour Support Professional, Dave Haq, talks about his experience of supporting men through the complex and often emotional journey triggered by a brain tumour diagnosis.

It’s no great secret that, compared to women, men generally tend to deal with their emotions and problems internally. There is clearly no right, or wrong way for anyone to address issues that are affecting them, but worries that are kept locked away in your thoughts can result in you becoming overwhelmed with your situation, leading to additional stress and anxiety. This is obviously applicable to both men and women. However, in my experience, men are less likely to share their feelings and fears openly with others. Maybe this is because it is not considered masculine, or that they have become used to dealing with difficulties on their own and consider the sharing of feelings a weakness or ‘not manly’.

I find it really helpful to have this ‘safe space’ to talk to others about what I’m going through.

However, during my five years as a Brain Tumour Support Professional, I can recall many conversations with the men I have supported, and it was a minority who did not share their feelings, and at times a few tears. This tells me that, given the right approach and ‘environment’, men are open to sharing what is going on for them and are willing to explore options that would help them cope better with their situation and avoid additional stress.

It’s good to speak to other men who understand.

Our ‘men only’ online support group offers a safe and confidential space; an opportunity for men to come together informally, to listen to other men sharing details of their ‘journey’. The sharing of information and experience in a group situation is valuable as men can often identify with the challenges faced by others and can take great comfort in the realisation that it is normal to feel the way that they feel. It is not a weakness, it is about being human.

The Men’s Support Group does not offer a fixed agenda, it is recognised that the fluid nature of the sessions allows for listening and sharing. There are no expectations for men to share their journey with others, they are welcome to come along and simply listen – and this is equally valuable for many. That said, we will always encourage sharing and contributing, but only when the person is ready.

If you identify with any of the above, please come along and join us. The online Men’s Support Group takes place on a monthly basis and lasts for one hour. It is necessary to reserve a place by contacting our Support Co-ordinator, Teresa, by email or giving her a call on 01454 422 701.

Dave Haq, July 2023

Find out more about our support sessions as well as the date of the next Men’s support group, and other groups and sessions coming up.

Our support line is open 9 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday. Call us at 01454 422701 or email us for help and support if you have been affected in any way, due to a brain tumour.