Relationship breakdowns are not just stressful they can be life-threatening for many men. A recent study, spanning 75 research papers across 30 countries and more than 100 million men, reveals that divorced men are nearly three times more likely to die by suicide than those who are married. For men under 34 relationship separation increases the risk by a staggering eightfold. Among young Australian men, relationship breakdown has overtaken mood disorders as the most common suicide trigger. 

As a community, we have both a responsibility and an opportunity to change the narrative. While there have been huge improvements in recent years we must move on from "toughen up" and creating a space for our mates and ourselves where vulnerability is understood as strength. This means having more meaningful conversations, supporting each other when times are tough, reaching out to mates when they are having relationship breakdown, and encouraging men to seek help early. It requires us to redefine masculinity that encourages openness, care, and resilience. Please see link to research [Here]  

Men's Mental Health Series 

As part of the OIU Mental Health Initiative, we are proud to launch the first event in our Mental Health Speaker Series. This series is about connection: hearing how others have managed their mental wellbeing post-career, breaking down stigma, and giving OIU members the chance to reconnect with old mates while talking openly about resilience and wellbeing. 

Our first event is being held on the 2nd October at The Union Hotel North Sydney. For this first event we have Ben Alexander – Former Wallaby (72 caps, 2008–2014) And Peter Murphy – CEO NSW Rugby, Dual Olympian (Rowing, 1992 & 1996) Who will be sharing their personal journeys—navigating life after elite sport, the challenges they faced, and their ongoing initiatives through Running for Resilience and Positive Rugby NSW. Spaces are very limited so use it as an excuse to reconnect with a mate and listen to these personnel stories. To see more details and RSVP please see link [Here].  

OIU Mental Health Walk The next OIU mental health walk will be around Greenwich Point, on Friday 31st October. We are meeting at 6.45am at TWO.H cafe 123 Greenwich Rd. We hope to see you there.

Picture: On Friday the 27th of June, on a very chilly Friday morning we brought the walk back to more familiar territory for many, Shelly beach at Manly, for a brisk walk to North Steyne surf club and back. A great contingent from the 91 vintage as well as guys from the 60s and 80s. Some great conversation, catching up with mates and sharing stories and how things are going in life generally.