Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas: Men’s Mental Health, Modern Challenges, & Suicide Prevention

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May 13, 2024 • 84 mins

A special episode for Mental Health Awareness Month with guest expert, Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas, a clinical psychologist, inspirational speaker, podcaster, and impact entrepreneur. Known as an innovator in social change, she has helped start multiple large-scale, gap-filling efforts in mental health, including “Construction Working Minds” and the award-winning Man Therapy campaign. She currently serves as the president of United Suicide Survivors International.

In this episode, we discuss the complexities of navigating mental health amidst a culture that often rewards victimhood, tangible solutions for those feeling lost in the currents of modern life's uncertainties, the unique challenges faced by men who suddenly find themselves lost in a rapidly changing world that offers little clarity about their roles and identities, and warning signs of suicide and steps for prevention. It's a must-listen for those of us struggling with mental health issues, trying to understand the pain of our loved ones, and for men who are frustrated by the confusing social expectation. It is also a call to redefine strength and identity in an age where both seem fraught with contradiction.

SHOWNOTES -

00:00:00 - Episode & Guest Introduction

00:01:33 - Dr. Sally's self-care & wellness strategies

00:06:00 - Current biggest threats to mental health

00:10:16 - Effective mental health solutions & overcoming divisiveness

00:17:20 - Is therapy still a great mental health tool?

00:27:05 - Using the power of storytelling to heal (and avoid the victim trap)

00:34:00 - Traditional norms of masculinity and the modern man

00:40:30 - Addressing loneliness and identity in men

00:49:35 - What do men really need & the success of Man Therapy

00:57:30 - Navigating self-expression and social judgement

01:00:50 - Warning signs and risk factors of suicide