More than just tools: The power of connection in Men’s Sheds

BY STEVEN KASZAB

Folks, perhaps you have turned 60+ years of age. As a male you may be going through a great deal of stress, with enumerable challenges needed to be met.

You have just retired or were retired by your employer. You don’t have any hobbies. You may be widowed or divorced. Living alone?

Perhaps you are unable to carry on as you once did so long ago physically, mentally, or socially. Have the changes in your life due to illness, or physical challenges due to age got you down? Has your relationship with your spouse changed drastically due to erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, or severe limitation to your physical mobility due to illness? Are you feeling unlike the man you once were: virile, strong, and self-aware? This can be a very stressful situation that can lead to unnecessary personal complications.

Are you finding yourself alone and isolated even within a relationship? Have the mental challenges you’re facing transformed your lifestyle and human outlook? Has your self-reliance been challenged as you try to work things out yourself?

Self-awareness is key. Seeking help is but a call away, and all you need to do is extend a hand to another, or simply ask for help. There are many programs that can help you within your local community.

Many men find friendship, camaraderie and assistance coming from unexpected pathways within our community, be it a neighborhood committee/organization, clubs and also organizations such as Men’s Sheds. Men’s Sheds exist all over the world, offering a place for men willing to admit they are in need to gather together in support of one another. Men’s Sheds provide an outlet for men trying to escape isolation, fatigue and hopelessness by offering them a friendly shoulder of support, a place to create using the many talents these men have. Older men teach the next generation, providing advice and friendship to one another.

Imagine you have worked all your life, and this routine suddenly stops. Your comfort zone is gone, or at least changed. You are no longer the household’s main financial support, and you don’t have any extra time. Your skills are not being used, and you have no purpose in life. Men can be like this, vulnerable and in need of help, but too proud to ask for it.

Men’s Sheds offers mental health programs that help men to understand their situation, why they do what they do and lead them towards further life’s accomplishments alongside life’s fellow travelers.