In a compelling testament to the silent struggles faced by young males, mental health charity TIC+ reveals that a significant portion of boys in the region endure their mental health challenges alone. Despite offering support and counseling to nearly 4,000 individuals, TIC+ notes a concerning statistic: only 30% of those seeking assistance are male.
According to the Mitcheldean-based charity, the aid it provides can often be the distinction between life and death for some individuals. To address this disparity in access to its services, TIC+ has launched an outreach scheme specifically targeting males aged nine to 25 in Gloucester’s most deprived areas.
The initiative, dubbed “Levelling Up Together,” is a collaborative effort with Gloucestershire County Council. This endeavor aims to bridge the gap by implementing an outreach and engagement program, enabling TIC+ to extend its support network to more young men.
Formerly known as Teens in Crisis, TIC+’s specialized program “Boys in Mind” operates in various areas including Barton & Tredworth, Kingsholm & Wotton, Podsmead, Tuffley, Westgate, and Cinderford. In a bid to reach a wider demographic, the charity seeks assistance from community groups to identify events where they can connect with youngsters who may not yet be aware of their services.
Addressing the public on BBC Radio Gloucestershire, Kerryann, TIC+ Youth Outreach and Engagement Officer, made a heartfelt plea: “We want to know what’s stopping you, why can you not reach out? Is it the stigma… is it just that you don’t know that we’re here?” Highlighting the accessibility of their services, Kerryann emphasized the availability of online and text-based support, expressing regret that many boys and young men continue to grapple with their issues in silence.
The spotlight on youth mental health has intensified in recent times, with growing concerns over the impact of social media. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, faced accusations of downplaying the risks associated with social media usage, contributing to a mental health crisis among young people. However, Meta argued in a US federal case that it provides “teens with safe, positive experiences online” and has introduced numerous tools to support them and their families.
TIC+ underscores its ability to address a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, isolation, and gang-related concerns. Kerryann stressed the transformative potential of their support, stating, “It can just make such a massive difference, in some cases you’re talking literally life and death.”
The charity’s overarching goal is to enhance mental health provision in disadvantaged areas, with a focus on preventing deterioration in mental wellbeing and reducing incidents of self-harm and suicidal ideation among young men. Through its Boys in Mind project, TIC+ aims to raise awareness of mental health signs and symptoms, ensure young males are aware of available support, and encourage early intervention to prevent long-term repercussions.
