An SDLP MLA has spoken out to encourage men to talk openly about their mental health.

Mark Durkan, the party's Health Spokesperson, made his appeal as November marks men's mental health awareness month, but said the issue "goes deeper than just another date in the diary".

"It provides the perfect opportunity for men to open a dialogue, to get real about real issues affecting them- whether that's a physical or mental concern they have been neglecting for too long," the Foyle MLA said.

"Men are dying too young and sadly, here in Northern Ireland we're all too aware of that fact. These are issues we can't afford to stay silent on.

"A chat with a friend or a loved one could make a world of difference and perhaps even save a life. I would encourage men to reach out, talk, be that support to the friend who you haven't seen in a while."

Mr Durkan continued that issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men's suicide are all problems which men should address more openly.

"Five minutes could make a lasting impact on your life and theirs," he added.



(JG)