The Football Mental Health Alliance Danny Matharu

In this episode of the FMHA Podcast titled "Tough to Talk," host Danny delves into the pressing issue of male suicide with Steve Whittle from the charity Tough to Talk.
The conversation addresses why discussing mental health, particularly suicide, remains a challenge, especially among men. Steve shares his personal experiences with suicide attempts and mental health struggles, emphasising the importance of open discussions about mental health without stigma.
He also discusses the statistical realities of male suicide, noting that while women attempt suicide more frequently, men are more likely to die from their attempts. The podcast highlights the crucial role of supportive conversations and interventions in preventing suicide and encourages listeners to engage in honest and direct dialogues about their mental health challenges.
Steve's insights are grounded in his extensive work with Tough to Talk, which aims to reduce male suicide rates by creating environments where men feel comfortable discussing their mental health. The charity's approach includes educating men in male-dominated spaces about recognising signs of distress in themselves and others, and how to respond effectively.
The episode is a compelling call to action for listeners to prioritise mental health discussions within their communities, emphasising that understanding and intervention can save lives.
This episode is essential listening for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of male mental health issues and the importance of community support in addressing this silent crisis.

In this episode of the Football Mental Health Alliance podcast, host Danny warmly welcomes Jake Mills, an award-winning comedian and the founder of the Hub of Hope, a pioneering charity dedicated to mental health support.
As they delve into Jake's transformative journey from battling personal mental health challenges to spearheading a national charity, the conversation highlights the crucial role of mental health awareness in grassroots football and beyond.
Jake shares his personal experiences with mental health struggles, which culminated in a suicide attempt that became a turning point in his life.

His recovery and subsequent public advocacy have inspired the creation of the Hub of Hope, an accessible directory of mental health services aimed at making support as easy to find as ordering a takeaway.

This episode not only sheds light on the individual struggles and triumphs associated with mental health but also underscores the importance of community support systems in sports settings, particularly football, where the collective spirit and passion can significantly amplify mental health awareness and support.

Have you ever walked into a packed bar or a football stadium?
Y’know, where you’re enveloped by that dull buzz of inaudible noise like you’re stepping into a wall of treacle?
Well, imagine that your brain tried to process every single word from every single conversation simultaneously.
Tricky, right?
I always remember watching the scene in Bruce Almighty where he starts hearing millions of prayers all at once and thinking:
“That’s exactly how my head sounds.”

The act of quitting is often stigmatised as a sign of failure, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Knowing when to quit - a job, a relationship, or a personal goal, is a testament to one's self-awareness, emotional intelligence and strategic foresight.

Confidence is one of the most desired mental qualities for footballers and athletes. But, you might have noticed that feelings of confidence don't always stick around, especially in difficult moments. This blog will tell you or your child how to turn up-and-down confidence into long-lasting self-belief on the pitch.

The phrase "The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding" serves as a powerful reminder and motivator, suggesting that personal growth, success, and meaningful achievements often lie just beyond the tasks and challenges we tend to resist or put off.