Posted on: 18th September 2025

Trigger warning: this article discusses suicide

There was a packed house at St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck on Wednesday, World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September 2025) for a performance of Men’s Talk ahead of a visit from the Baton of Hope.

This powerful production was performed by six men with lived experience of mental health issues. The ensemble combined speech and movement to explore a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD; look at their roots for each man and explode the myths that poor mental health means you are weak; and need to ‘man up’.

From childhood games to jibes on the assembly line, the scenes played out, leading to feelings of isolation and self-loathing. It didn’t shy away from the reality of self-harm and suicide.

A powerful section went through the statistics of fuel debt, disability benefits and more, each topic interspersed with an ironic chorus of “We are the reckless, the feckless, the underserving poor; We’ve got our hands out, we’re demanding more.”

The overriding message of performance was the importance of talking to someone when things aren’t going well.

In the question and answer afterwards, it was explained that every episode depicted had happened to the men, but that the stories were mixed up so that no one had to tell their own story, as that would be too difficult, too triggering, for amateur performers. Asked about the process, they explained that rehearsals took place in a safe, non-judgemental space.

“Dealing with performing in public helps you deal with other difficult issues in your life” explained one of the cast.

“It brings you out of yourself”, said another, “and it’s empowering to know that you’re making a difference.”

Read more about the day here.

Photo shows the cast of Men’s Talk, and the Baton of Hope outside St Matthew's Community Centre.