June is Men’s Mental Health Month: Why I’m Speaking Up
By Rob Hilditch | SocialChemistry.ca
When I first started building SocialChemistry.ca, I had one goal: to create a space where people could release, reflect, and reconnect — anonymously, honestly, and without shame. What I didn’t realize was how deeply personal that mission would become.
June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and it hits close to home.
I’ve been the guy who thought he had to be strong all the time. The one who carried burdens quietly. The one who smiled when things were heavy. The one who helped others, but never asked for help himself.
The Stigma is Real — But So Are the Struggles
There’s an unspoken rule in society: Men don’t cry. Men don’t talk. Men handle it.
But that silence has a cost.
For me, it came in waves — stress, anxiety, anger I didn’t understand, and moments where I felt completely disconnected from the people around me… even from myself. I didn’t want to burden anyone. I didn’t want to admit that I was struggling.
And I know I’m not alone.
- Every year, thousands of men in Canada die by suicide, often after battling in silence.
- Globally, men account for over 75% of suicides.
- Many more suffer silently from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction — but won’t seek help due to fear, shame, or stigma.
Social Chemistry Was Born From This Struggle
I needed a space that didn’t judge me.
That didn’t ask for labels.
That didn’t make me feel weak for feeling.
So I created it.
SocialChemistry.ca is a digital safe space for people who need to be heard — especially men.
It’s a place where you can share your story anonymously. Where you can find support without shame. Where you’re reminded that you’re not broken, you’re healing.
We’ve built:
- A platform to share real, anonymous stories
- Mental health resources and vendor tools
- Playlists to help release what’s bottled up
- A podcast that gets real about emotions and survival
And most importantly — a community.
This Month, I Challenge You to Do 3 Things:
- Check in on the men in your life — not just with “How are you?”, but with real questions. Be specific. Be patient. Be present.
- Tell your truth — whether it’s to a friend, in a journal, or anonymously on our platform. Your story matters. It might even be someone else’s survival guide.
- Let go of the mask — Strength isn’t silence. Strength is owning your story.
My Story Isn’t Finished — And Neither is Yours
I still have tough days. I still get stuck in my head. But now, I know I’m not alone — and neither are you.
This June, let’s make men’s mental health more than a hashtag. Let’s make it real. Let’s make it something we talk about, normalize, and support — together.
Because healing starts with honesty.
And connection starts with sharing.
You’re not weak for feeling. You’re human.
– Rob Hilditch
Founder, SocialChemistry.ca
Share your story. Heal your mind.