Young men in the West Midlands are sharing their own experiences to encourage others to seek mental health support when needed.
A new campaign launched in Birmingham and Solihull aims to raise awareness about a free, confidential text service designed specifically for young men. By texting ‘Space’ to 85258, anyone feeling stressed, low, or withdrawn can connect with trained mental health professionals. This service is free, off-bill, confidential, and available 24/7.
Three men involved in the campaign want to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and inspire others to start conversations about their feelings.
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Anthony Taylor, 18, from Dickens Heath, is motivated by his own struggles with severe bullying in his youth. He shared, “I don’t want anyone to struggle the way I did – no one should feel alone with their mental health.”
Junaid Mahmood, 30, from Alum Rock, highlighted the importance of breaking stigma within the Muslim community. Working in mental health services himself, Junaid said, “The community and culture I come from are underrepresented in mental health services, not because support isn’t needed, but because stigma still exists. Texting ‘Space’ to 85258 offers a discreet and accessible way to get help, especially for those who might avoid phone or face-to-face conversations.”
Blaine Rowe, 23, a professional footballer and coach from Bromsgrove, knows firsthand the pressure young men face in sports to hide their struggles. Blaine said, “Football embodies strength, resilience, and togetherness, but it often discourages players from speaking up. Opening up doesn’t make you weak; in fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do.”
This service is a collaboration between Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Shout, the UK’s first 24/7 text messaging support service, launched in August last year. Although it has supported nearly 700 people in the region so far, about 70 percent of users have been women and young girls. This prompted the current campaign to reach more young men.
Billboards featuring Blaine, Anthony, and Junaid will be displayed near Villa Park, St Andrew’s, Birmingham City Centre, and around local mosques throughout the month.