On February 23, 2025, Eastport United Methodist Church in Annapolis, Maryland, will host a panel discussion on male mental health titled “Burdens Men Carry.” This event aims to encourage open dialogue surrounding the mental and emotional challenges men face and to combat the stigma often associated with seeking help for mental health issues.
Event Details
Date: February 23, 2025
Location: Eastport United Methodist Church, Annapolis, Maryland
Purpose: To raise awareness about men’s mental health and promote candid conversations about the pressures men experience in their personal, professional, and social lives.
Panel Features
The discussion will feature insights from three highly respected figures in the mental health and advocacy space:
Lance David, MA LCPC
A seasoned therapist with over 22 years of experience, Lance David specializes in relationship issues and trauma. He is an advocate for men’s mental health and utilizes various therapeutic techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) to help clients heal. His approach focuses on helping men navigate personal challenges and achieve emotional growth.
Ryan Williams
A software engineer and leader, Ryan Williams has spent more than 25 years in the tech industry and is known for his advocacy work in disability and neurodiversity inclusion. Williams volunteers as a speaker for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), sharing his personal experience and promoting awareness for mental health, especially in the male community. He has been recognized for his contributions with several mental health advocacy awards.
Phil Kaplan
A former lawyer, Phil Kaplan became involved in mental health advocacy after stepping away from his legal career due to depression. Kaplan has spoken about his journey and shared his story with a wide range of audiences, including law enforcement and healthcare professionals. He is an active member of Eastport United Methodist Church and continues to support initiatives aimed at improving mental health understanding.
Additional Information
Q&A Session: After the panel discussion, there will be an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and engage in a deeper dialogue about the mental health challenges men face and how they can seek help.
Complimentary Refreshments: The event will provide refreshments, allowing participants to continue the conversation in a more informal setting.
Why This Panel is Important
The Burdens Men Carry panel seeks to address a critical issue—the stigma around mental health for men. Society often expects men to be strong, stoic, and emotionally resilient, which can prevent them from seeking help when they need it the most. This panel will explore how these societal pressures affect men’s mental well-being and encourage healthier, more open conversations about mental health.
With experienced advocates and professionals leading the discussion, this event will offer valuable insights and resources for those struggling with their mental health or looking to support others in their community.
Mark your calendars for February 23, 2025, to be part of this important conversation and to help challenge the stigma surrounding male mental health.
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