A monthly catch up with local men changes lives

No one is immune to life stressors. But many men bottle up their struggles or concerns, which can create feelings of loneliness and lead to physical and mental health challenges. In some instances, it can even lead to loss of life.

In 2021 in Australia, 2,358 men died by suicide. That equates to six men every day, as well as six families and six communities impacted by the loss of a loved one. Our annual Health Needs Assessment found that Frankston and Port Melbourne were two suburbs with the highest rates of mental health conditions and suicidality in south east Melbourne.

Research shows that feeling connected and having a sense of belonging can be protective factors for suicidality. Despite the importance of meaningful relationships for our health and wellbeing, many Australian men are struggling to make and maintain them. Approximately two in five men report feeling lonely and 37% are unhappy with the quality of their relationships.

To support south east Melbourne men in finding connection and building positive relationships, we commissioned two Men’s Tables in Frankston and Port Melbourne at the beginning of 2023. The Men’s Table is a national organisation which started in 2011 when twelve men got together for a chat and a local bite to eat after co-founder Ben Hughes told a couple of mates he was struggling through a rough divorce and a tough time running his business. Instantly benefiting from the judgment-free support and the informal way in which they could talk honestly about their lives and their feelings, they knew they were on to something special. So, Ben and cofounder David Pointon decided in 2019 to share the formula with other men - a cheap meal, once a month at the same time and in the same place with the same group of men.

Frankston and Port Melbourne entrées (introduction sessions) were held in February and March 2023, and every month the same ten men sat together at the same time, in the same place to listen and share.

Bill Karametos, Regional Host for south east Melbourne, says “Our priority is to get men connecting, so the Table is free to attend, and men simply pay for their meal and drink.”

Ninety percent of men joining the Frankston table stated their reason for joining was to find friendship and connection. Forty-five percent of men joining the Port Melbourne table were looking for connection and friendship, and twenty-two percent were struggling with life’s ups and downs.