Bringing male friendships to the table

A CHANCE to make genuine connections over substantial conversations is on the menu at The Men’s Table.

The two groups that are run in Ballarat are hosting an information session on Tuesday 4 August to encourage more men to join.

A preventative men’s mental health and community-building initiative, The Men’s Table aims to help foster meaningful male friendships by creating safe spaces for them to share, overcoming the stigma that men don’t talk.

Every month, participants come together over a meal and talk about their feelings, and the highs and lows impacting their lives.

“It works when men commit to meeting once a month in a safe and private space to have a more open conversation,” regional host Bill Karametos said.

According to the Table’s parent body, 84 per cent of participants felt a stronger sense of community belonging while 80 per cent reported a benefit to their mental health and wellbeing.

Table member Marcus has said it has been one of the most positive influences in his life.

“It gives me a safe place where I know whatever I share stays at the table,” he said.

“There’s complete confidentiality, no judgement, and no pressure to speak if you don’t want to.

“You can share as little or as much as you feel comfortable with.”

He appreciated the event’s sense of community.

“Over time, you build genuine relationships with a great group of blokes,” he said. “As trust grows, so does the connection.

“You get to know each other’s stories, support one another through life’s ups and downs, and become part of each other’s journey.”

He had nothing but positive things to say about the initiative.

“It’s helped me stay connected, given me a place where I feel accepted, and reminded me that I don’t have to face life’s challenges alone,” he said.

The session will be held from 6.30pm to 9pm at The Lake View Hotel.

More information and registration at events.humanitix.com/ballarat-men-s-table-entree