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TOUGH WORDS
Men's Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Blog.
Here, we tackle men's mental health and suicide prevention head-on with real stories, expert insights, and actionable advice. Whether you're seeking support, looking to understand more about these critical issues, or wanting to join the conversation, you'll find valuable resources and community here. Dive in and discover the power of tough words.
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If We Can Save Lives at Sea, Why Haven’t We Built the Same System to Save Men From Suicide?
If We Can Save Lives at Sea, Why Haven’t We Built the Same System to Save Men From Suicide?


Men: Decisive and Determined – To a Fault
Men: Decisive and Determined – To a Fault


January Didn’t Bring New Answers on Suicide. It Exposed the Same Old Problem.
January Didn’t Bring New Answers on Suicide. It Exposed the Same Old Problem.


“It’s Not That Bad”: The Danger of Downplaying Pain
By Steve Rothwell Overcome Trauma Stuck Points Counselling www.reliefandhope.com Blokes in emotional distress are often like wild birds. They fluff themselves up and appear strong right up to the moment they are about to fall off the perch. The comparison may sound absurd, or even insensitive, but it holds. When men are under sustained emotional strain, many slip into automatic distress-minimising or outright denial. They tell themselves it is not that bad. They carry on. The


What I Survived, What Nearly Broke Me, and Why I Speak Up Now
What I Survived, What Nearly Broke Me, and Why I Speak Up Now


We Don’t Wait for Crisis: Why Tough To Talk Works Upstream To Reduce Male Suicide.
We Don’t Wait for Crisis: Why Tough To Talk Works Upstream To Reduce Male Suicide.


Riding for a Reason: A 100k Journey for Men's Mental Health
Riding for a Reason: A 100k Journey for Men's Mental Health


I’ve Seen Santa’s Naughty & Nice List for Suicide Prevention (Christmas 2025)
I’ve Seen Santa’s Naughty & Nice List for Suicide Prevention (Christmas 2025) And yes, I’ve put Tough to Talk on the Nice side. Argue with me.
By Steve Whittle, Founder of Tough to Talk


TRANSFORMING WORKPLACE CULTURE IN MALE-CENTRIC SPACES, REDUCING MALE SUICIDE AND BREAKING THE SILENCE ON MEN'S CRISES.
TRANSFORMING WORKPLACE CULTURE IN MALE-CENTRIC SPACES, REDUCING MALE SUICIDE AND BREAKING THE SILENCE ON MEN'S CRISES.


Media's Influence on Suicide: A Call for Responsibility
Media's Influence on Suicide: A Call for Responsibility


England & Wales Suicide Trends: A 2024 Deep Dive
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) paint a stark and troubling picture of suicide in England and Wales. The 2024 data reveals a continued crisis, particularly for men, and highlights significant shifts across different age groups and regions. While the overall numbers show a slight increase, a deeper look reveals specific areas of urgent concern that demand our immediate attention and action. At Tough To Talk, we are committed to confronting the


The Forgotten Majority: How Asymmetric Conscious Bias is Failing Men in Male-Dominated Workplaces
The Forgotten Majority: How Asymmetric Conscious Bias is Failing Men in Male-Dominated Workplaces


75% of all suicides in the UK are men. Look out for the signs that the men in your life are not ok
Learn to spot the critical warning signs of mental distress in men. With 75% of UK suicides being male, knowing these signs can save lives.


THE TOP SUICIDAL BEHAVIOURS THAT WE COMMONLY MISS IN MEN.
Uncover the top suicidal behaviors often overlooked in men. Our guide provides crucial insights to help identify signs and support our men.


MALE SUICIDE MYTHS IN THE UK
Myths about Male Suicide are dangerous and stop people getting the help they need. Break the chains of limiting beliefs and misconceptions.


CAUSES OF MALE SUICIDE
Explore the complex causes of male suicide in the UK, including personal, relational, community, and societal factors.


"How did Daddy stop himself from breathing?"
Read Caroline's moving story about her husband Steve and the impact of his suicide. Discover the lasting effects on loved ones.


The hole you left behind: An open letter to anyone contemplating suicide.
Read Rebecca's poignant story about her husband Dalton and the impact of his suicide.


Please stop telling boys to soldier up or that men don’t cry! They are just human!
Read Claudia's powerful story about her partner James and the impact of his suicide.


Remembering Kyle Surman
Read a powerful tribute to Kyle, a beloved father lost to suicide. Discover the impact of his loss and the importance of seeking help.
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