For episode 37 of Squaring The Circle we have another, but very different Creative Collective Mastermind session. We recorded this during Mental Health Awareness week in May with the focus on how we support ourselves with regards to mental health but it just so happened that for the first time it was an all male group. Even with the seemingly progressive attitude towards mental health, I don’t think it is any secret that men still find it tough to chat openly about the subject. So we saw this as an opportunity to share our thoughts, the difficulties we face and coping strategies we use.

What you’re about to hear is a searingly honest conversation where we all put down the barriers and lend a listening ear to one another. We were hesitant about releasing this episode due to how private some of the shared thoughts were – but feel it is only with these kind of chats – gradually the dial is moved and the mental health stigma can be worn away.

A huge thank you to Martin Whiskin, Michael Coltham, Matt Read, Simon Wells, Quinton Quayle, Sean Anthony and Nick Field for contributing to what I hope is a valuable conversation.

Our chat explores:

• How we manage our mental health
• Getting lost in the process of life
• How being employed and self employed alters your mental health
• Using a community to aid your mental health

*Also, a quick warning – due to the nature of the conversation - attempting suicide is mentioned and discussed*

If you're struggling with your mental health at the moment the below charities are set up to help:

https://www.mind.org.uk/

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

https://mentalhealth-uk.org/

-------------------------------------------------------------------------This episode is sponsored by The Creative Collective – the online networking group for creative businesses. You can sign up here for free!   https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-creative-collective-tickets-299305188877