Most men know if they’re struggling with their mental health but where do they start trying to improve it? What do they do next when they’re just trying to get through the week? When things feel heavy, men crack on, push it down, or tell themselves it’s just life.
Shift Your Focus starts from that reality, not by asking men to open up more, but by giving them practical, simple ways to change perspective. It’s a starting point which feels achievable and proactive.
The campaign is built on evidence and real life experiences, recognising that it must:
- Focus on practical skills and actions, not just talking.
- Frame maintaining mental fitness as responsible action and highlight the potential personal gains.
- Utilise positive male role models to help shift harmful social norms.
- Activate and empower a man’s informal network of friends, family, and colleagues to spot the signs and offer help in a supportive, non-judgmental way.
By embedding these principles into the campaign, Shift your Focus guides men to make a conscious choice to redirect their mental habits or attention to something more helpful.
In support of our campaign to improve men’s mental fitness we’re asking employers across our region to take part and support their teams to shift focus with quick, easy everyday practical skills and actions.
When your head’s full or you’re stuck in a rough patch, shifting your focus, even for a few minutes, can help you steady yourself and get back on track. These aren’t big tasks or grand fixes, just straightforward things you can build into your week that genuinely help your mental fitness.
These are based on the NHS Five Steps to Wellbeing. These are evidence based, tried-and-tested actions that help people feel more positive and resilient. So everyone can feel more able to handle what life throws at them.
Check in with a mate
Staying connected matters but it’s easy to forget to check in. A quick word on a break, checking someone’s alright, or having a laugh together can lift the weight a bit. If it’s been a while since you last spoke to a mate, send that message, you’ll both feel better for it.
Get up and move your body
Activity doesn’t have to mean gyms or running shoes. Walk the dog, take the long way round or just stretch your legs. Even a few minutes to yourself outdoors can help keep you steady.
Take a moment to yourself
Pausing and noticing the world around you is grounding. It can be as simple as stepping away from the noise, getting some fresh air, or pausing to reset before the next job. Short moments of quiet help clear the head and reduce stress.
Try something new
Learning something different, even something small, wakes the brain up. Listen to a podcast, make something, or try a new recipe. Learning something can give you a lift and help you feel back in control.
Show up for someone else
Giving someone a hand is good for both sides. Lend a hand to someone that needs it, share a skill or help a mate talk through a problem. It’s a great way to feel valued, helping others builds a culture where men look out for each other.
Get involved to help
Launch the ‘Shift Your Focus’ campaign in your workplace and support men across York and North Yorkshire to take back control of their mental fitness. Get in touch with us to find out more about how you can get involved.