Man Sets Up Dog Walking Group For Men Who Need To Open Up And Talk About Their Feelings

Though discussing mental health has gradually become less taboo in the last few years, there’s still a significant amount of stigma associated with mental health issues and many people find it difficult to open up about their problems.

And research suggests that men are especially reluctant to discuss their feelings and seek support. It’s theorized that this is due to societal expectations on men to be “tough” and in control. Another reason could be that many men don’t discuss their feelings with their friends to the same extent that women tend to do.

Whatever the reason, the fact is that many men are battling issues like depression and anxiety without the support they need and deserve.

But Rob Osman is attempting to change that.

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Osman himself has suffered from anxiety and depression and one of the things that helped him get better was the long walks he took with his pup Mali.

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Osman always knew that he wanted to do something to help others, and while pursuing a degree in psychology and counselling, he started to think about what that thing could be.

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After reflecting on how important and restorative his walks with Mali had been, and how he already tended to invite friends in need on dog walks with him, the idea for Dudes & Dogs was born.

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Studies have shown that spending time around animals does have a positive effect on our general wellbeing.

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But pups are not only beneficial for our physical health. Dogs provide us with love, companionship, an incentive to go outside and exercise, a daily routine and plain old fun and all of this is beneficial for our mental health.

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However, while exercise and pups both promote better mental health, the most important part of Dudes & Dogs is that it gives men a space in which they can open up and share their feelings. Talking is so important when it comes to mental health.