In today’s fast-paced world, busy men often overlook the importance of genuine connections. However, one teacher and author believes schools can play a vital role in addressing the mental health crisis among boys. Bromance 101 is a groundbreaking course designed to challenge toxic masculinity and foster meaningful male friendships.

Matt Pinkett is an English teacher and advocate against harmful stereotypes. In his book “Boys Do Cry: Improving Boys’ Mental Health and Wellbeing in Schools,” Pinkett highlights the significance of emotional openness and the need for positive male role models. Traditional figures like Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, or Frodo and Sam from “Lord of the Rings,” exemplify the power of bromance.

Drawing upon insights from school staff, therapists, and well-being experts, Pinkett asserts that exposing children to texts featuring close, emotionally intimate, and enriching male relationships is essential. By reading about characters like Sam and Frodo or Holmes and Watson, boys can learn the value of strong, supportive friendships.

To promote bromance in schools, Pinkett suggests strategies for teachers. Acknowledging and appreciating male teachers helps promote healthy male friendships. Discussing potential hurdles, such as concerns about others speculating on sexuality or dealing with ridicule, creates a supportive environment for boys to embrace meaningful connections.

Discouraging negative behaviour is crucial. Pinkett advises educators to actively discourage “bad banter,” name-calling, mockery, and verbal abuse. By promoting respect and empathy, teachers foster an atmosphere conducive to developing authentic bonds.

Media and societal standards influence body image. Pinkett urges teachers to avoid reinforcing harmful notions of masculinity. Statements like “I need strong boys to help me take these books next door” perpetuate the idea that specific body types are superior. Boys should also be educated about the unrealistic male bodies portrayed in TV shows and social media.

Expressing problems to male friends can be challenging for boys.

Pinkett acknowledges this and encourages teachers to model positive attitudes towards male emotions. While teachers can’t replace therapists, they play a significant role in young boys’ lives. By guiding them on managing challenging feelings, teachers empower boys to embrace vulnerability and emotional articulation.

“It’s not just a problem for teenage boys,” Pinkett emphasises. “Teaching them to reject harmful and outdated expectations of masculinity positively impacts society as a whole.” Education about healthy relationships and emotional intelligence is key to eradicating male-on-female sexual abuse, assault, and harassment. Through comprehensive education, we pave the way for a more compassionate and inclusive future.

Bromance 101 is a transformative course that promotes authentic connections and challenges harmful stereotypes. By embracing emotional openness, encouraging positive role models, and fostering a supportive environment, schools empower boys to thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially. Let’s rewrite the narrative of masculinity and build a better world together.

The behaviour of female contestants on the popular TV show Love Island sparked a debate a while back about toxic femininity. Viewers accused three women on the show of exhibiting double standards, hypocrisy, gaslighting, and weaponising their “sisterhood” to support each other’s bad behaviour. This prompted discussions about toxic femininity and whether it is becoming a problem in society.

Toxic femininity is the counterpart to the concept of toxic masculinity, which refers to the negative aspects of traditional masculine norms. The term toxic femininity has gained traction recently, with different interpretations depending on who is using it. Some describe it as the pressure on women to conform to societal expectations of being quiet, submissive, and nurturing to avoid conflict with men. Men’s rights activists, on the other hand, see it as evidence that the #MeToo movement has given women too much power, which they supposedly exploit.

In the case of Amber Heard and Johnny Depp, Heard was labeled as an example of toxic femininity by Depp’s supporters. Many female fans of Depp also endorsed this view. However, feminists argue against the term, claiming it is unnecessary and harmful. Nevertheless, women who have witnessed or experienced toxic behavior among other women, whether in school, social settings, or workplaces, know that it can exist.

The examples of toxic femininity are numerous. They range from women engaging in manipulation, passive aggression, competition, and forming alliances to enhance their social status. Instances of exclusion, mean comments, and judgmental behaviour can be observed in various settings, such as schools, yoga studios, social groups, or workplaces dominated by women. While these may not be representative of all women, it would be disingenuous to deny their existence or pretend they haven’t happened.

To gain a male perspective on toxic femininity, conversations with men reveal similar experiences. Men recount instances where they feel perpetually expected to pay for dates or face casual rejection. They share stories of women expecting them to conform to specific sexual preferences without clear communication, and when they express surprise or disagreement, they are accused of shaming or abusing their privilege. Men also express frustration with the pressure to be financially viable and the expectation that they should pay for women’s expenses on dates.

The modern expectation that men should pay for women plays into traditional gender roles and can be seen as unfair. It reinforces the idea of men as providers and women as dependents, perpetuating damaging stereotypes. Furthermore, it feeds into the narratives of those who monetise misogyny, suggesting that women only value high-status men. This notion is echoed by men who express their belief that women prioritise status, leading to feelings of contempt and resentment.

However, it is important to consider whether focusing on toxic femininity is useful or relevant in the grand scheme of things. In light of the alarming rates of domestic violence and low rape prosecution rates, discussions about Love Island controversies or who pays for a date may seem trivial. These issues may pale in comparison to the larger challenges facing women.

Social psychologist Dr. Devon Price argues that toxic masculinity and toxic femininity are interdependent, each reinforcing the other. Eliminating one without addressing the other may not lead to meaningful change. While paying for one’s share of expenses may seem like a minor act, it can be seen as a step towards equality and dismantling harmful gender norms.

The concept of toxic femininity has sparked debates and discussions about women’s behaviour and societal expectations. While some reject the term, many acknowledge that toxic behaviours can be observed among women. It is essential to consider the broader context of gender inequality and focus on addressing the more significant issues affecting women’s safety and well-being.

Toxic femininity is the counterpart to toxic masculinity, encompassing harmful behaviours and expectations associated with women. It’s important to note that toxic femininity doesn’t imply that all women exhibit these behaviours or that they are inherently toxic. Instead, it recognises that societal pressures and stereotypes can sometimes lead to negative behaviour patterns.

Deconstructing toxic femininity is a collective effort that involves men and women working together to redefine gender roles and expectations. Here’s how we can contribute

Becoming a father is supposed to be a joyous and fulfilling experience, but it’s time we acknowledge that it can also be incredibly challenging and emotionally draining. We often hear about postnatal depression (PND) affecting new mothers, but what about us, the dads? It turns out, we’re not immune to the clutches of PND either. Recent studies suggest that up to 10% of fathers experience symptoms of postnatal depression, yet little is being done to support us. In this blog post, let’s shed light on the overlooked battle of postnatal depression in dads and explore why it’s crucial for us to prioritise our mental well-being.

Picture this: The birth of your first child was accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions. However, as crisis struck and your wife required an emergency C-section, you found yourself feeling helpless and unprepared. The traumatic experience left a lasting impact, making it difficult for you to connect with your newborn. You’re not alone in this struggle. Many fathers have experienced similar emotions, feeling detached and going through the motions of parenting while silently battling postnatal depression.

Society places enormous expectations on fathers nowadays. We’re expected to be more involved in caregiving, balancing work and family life, all while being the rock our partners can rely on. This pressure can take a toll on our mental health. We might find ourselves exhausted, trying to juggle it all without realising that we, too, need support and care. It’s essential to acknowledge that our well-being matters just as much as that of our partners and children.

We must let go of the notion that seeking help is a sign of weakness. It takes incredible strength to admit that fatherhood is challenging and that we need support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, or disconnected from your child, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Talk to your partner, a trusted friend, or consider professional counselling services. Remember, taking care of ourselves isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for us to be the best fathers we can be.

We must let go of the notion that seeking help is a sign of weakness. It takes incredible strength to admit that fatherhood is challenging and that we need support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, or disconnected from your child, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Talk to your partner, a trusted friend, or consider professional counselling services. Remember, taking care of ourselves isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for us to be the best fathers we can be.

One of the common threads among fathers experiencing postnatal depression is the feeling of isolation. We may not have the same social networks as new mothers, making it challenging to discuss our feelings openly. But it’s crucial to find support, whether it’s through online communities, support groups, or seeking guidance from healthcare professionals specialising in mental health. Connecting with other dads who have gone through similar experiences can be incredibly validating and comforting.

Let’s address the monster in the corner – the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Society often expects us to be stoic, tough, and unaffected by emotional challenges. But the truth is, we’re human beings with valid emotions, vulnerabilities, and struggles. By breaking the silence and openly discussing our experiences, we can shatter the stigma surrounding male mental health. Remember, you’re not alone, and sharing your story might inspire other fathers to seek the help they need.

Fatherhood is a journey filled with ups and downs, and it’s essential to prioritise self-care along the way. Take time for yourself, engage in activities that bring you joy, and don’t neglect your own well-being. By nurturing our mental health, we create a positive environment for our families and strengthen the bond with our children.

Becoming a father is a beautiful, transformative experience, but it can also come with its share of challenges. Postnatal depression is a reality for many dads, and it’s time we recognise and address it. Remember, seeking help is a sign.

Given the recent troubles with ITV’s schedule, and the controversy surrounding leading presenter Philip Schofield, could Loose Men fill the void, at least of the time being? Could a version of it work alongside or just before Loose Women?

ITV viewers are rallying behind the spin-off show “Loose Men” and urging its permanent inclusion on television, with some even claiming it surpasses the original “Loose Women.”

In the latest episode, the panel consisted of Paul Sinha from The Chase, Vernon Kay, boxer Tommy Fury, and Martin Kemp. These men engaged in discussions covering a diverse range of topics, including erectile dysfunction, the appropriate timing for proposing marriage, and even had Tommy sharing some boxing tips with the panel.

The question arises: Why did ITV introduce the “Loose Men” spin-off? “Loose Men” first made its debut in November 2020, coinciding with International Men’s Day. On that occasion, the panel comprised JLS singer Marvin Humes, comedian Iain Stirling, Boyzone star Ronan Keating, and radio host Roman Kemp.

Since then, the spin-off has returned sporadically for a series of episodes, either to commemorate Mental Health Awareness Week or International Men’s Day. Notable guests such as Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe, actor Larry Lamb, and former rugby player Mike Tindall have tackled various challenging subjects during these lunchtime discussions.

Viewers have heaped praise upon “Loose Men” and are advocating for its permanent inclusion in the ITV schedule.

One enthusiastic viewer remarked, “Omg this ‘Loose Men’ is actually so much better than ‘Loose Women’.” Another expressed their delight, stating, “I love seeing #LooseMen presenting #LooseWomen, especially some of my favorite male celebrities. It’s so important for men to open up too! ‘Loose Men’ should become a monthly thing.”

In agreement, another viewer shared, “What an absolute joy watching ‘Loose Men.’ It’s great to hear the other side… Martin Kemp, I’m completely aligned with you. The ’80s was the pinnacle of music and style. I was a skinhead back then and a big SKA fan, but I loved your band and others. Total quality xx.”

A passionate fan urged the show to become a regular fixture, exclaiming, “Petition to make #LooseMen a permanent thing.” Numerous others voiced their support on Twitter, emphasizing the importance of tackling taboo and potentially embarrassing topics, and appealed to ITV to air the show on a weekly basis, as it is just as crucial as “Loose Women.”

Beat, an eating disorder charity, reveals these alarming figures during Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Andrew Radford, the organisation’s president, highlights the lack of understanding and compassion for men with eating disorders, hindering their access to support.

Let’s be real, showing masculinity is such a tough thing to do in today’s times. It’s a great quality to have when used right, a bit like a superpower if you like. But it can also be associated with toxic behaviour if not approached in a healthy way. Here are some tips to help you be masculine without being toxic.

Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in life. While the causes of depression are complex and multi-faceted, recent studies have suggested that there may be a link between gut health and depression.

The gut, also known as the digestive system, is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively referred to as the gut microbiome. This microbiome is responsible for regulating digestive processes and maintaining a healthy immune system. Research has shown that imbalances in the gut microbiome can lead to various physical and mental health problems, including depression.

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that has been gaining popularity in recent years as a highly effective way to increase productivity. The basic principle behind it is simple: break your workday into 25-minute intervals, called “pomodoros,” with short breaks in between, and take a longer break after every four pomodoros. This technique has been shown to increase focus and reduce distractions, helping people to accomplish more in less time.

What is the Pomodoro Technique

When it comes to attraction, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. While some may argue that certain life stages make a man more attractive, the truth is that attraction is subjective and depends on a variety of factors, including personality, confidence, and physical appearance.

Making money on social media is a common goal for all of us now. The advent of working remote, flexibly and online has never been more appealing or easy… but how realistic is it for us men.

With the rise of platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, there has never been a better time for men to start making money through social media. Here are some ways that men can monetize their social media presence: