It's okay to 'Man Down'

Tuesday 17 September 2019

A local filmmaker has premiered his documentary, 'Man Down', to a sold-out audience while reminding local men that "it's okay not to be okay".

The film features Guernsey men, as well as some from elsewhere, speaking about their struggles with mental health and how they are working to overcome them.

The audience heard about men from all different walks of life, including those in the emergency services, former soldiers and family men who have suffered with a mental illness.

The documentary, which has been put together by Gaz Papworth of Element Films, asks men to "forget the phrase 'man up' and know it's okay to 'man down'". It wants to challenge the stereotype of 'being a man', inspiring others to open up about their emotions and ask for the help they need.

The film ended with a particularly poignant interview with the mother of a young man who ended his own life in Guernsey two years ago.

"Everyone knows that the biggest cause of death for men under 50 is suicide and that needs to change," said Mr Papworth. "If this film can help just one man speak up then it's been worthwhile."

There was a glimmer of hope though, with the local charity Man Club playing a role in the documentary. It offers a safe, non-judgemental place for men to meet, listen and speak if they want to.

"Little gestures can go a long way," explained Man Club Lead Facilitator, Phil Surry. "It's the smallest acts that have the biggest butterfly effects - just keep that in mind with each other.

Pictured: A member of the local fire service shared his experiences for the film. (Image from Man Down documentary).

"With your help and support we can continue to grow. There is hope. There is support out there. People do care. You are loved and we can start to support one another more and more.

"Talk to each other and share."

Although the local premiere sold out, Mr Papworth is hosting another screening on Thursday evening [19 September] with tickets available here.

"I thought this project wouldn't get this big and I am very humbled," he said. "Hopefully, we can diminish the stigma of men's mental health. Together we can knock down boundaries."

All proceeds from the two screening events will support the Man Club as well as Guernsey Mind.

More information on the film can be found here.