A depression photography campaign challenging the stereotypes that prevent men from reaching out to seek treatment and support.
Following up our #BetterStartsHere campaign this past fall, HeadsUpGuys is connecting with some amazing photographers to raise awareness of depression in men during this year’s #MensHealthWeek (June 13-19th, the week preceding Father’s Day). A special thanks to the photographers who contributed to this campaign.
Artist Submissions
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Inside
“To acknowledge and allow your feelings. To deal with hard questions instead of avoiding them. To look inwards trying to understand how you work. To ask for help if you can’t do it alone. These things do not make you weak – To know and understand yourself is the greatest strength you can ever have.”
Tommy Ingberg, visual artist, Nyköping/Stockholm, Sweden 
This image was gifted to HeadsUpGuys by Nicolas for the campaign. To us it symbolizes the sometimes exhausting and ongoing search of what it means to be a man.
Nicolas Bruno, fine art photographer, Northport, New York, U.S.A. 
“One thing I’ve learnt over the years is that depression thrives on secrecy. Although it can be terrifying, finding the strength to reach out to someone close can really go a long way on the road to recovery. It’s not a sign of weakness to admit that you’re struggling or finding life hard, we’re all in this together. The simple act of raising my hand and admitting I needed some help really turned things around for me and I was surprised how supportive everyone was. This image represents breaking down the barriers and not being ashamed to call for some help.”
– William Patino, professional landscape and travel photographer based out of Wollongong, Australia 
– Adam Hague, conceptual self portrait artist and photographer based out of Brunei and the UK
“Quiet and measured, I hold back a cry, what is this chaos I’ve nurtured inside? Suffocation and swallowed pride leave marks where my heart used to lie. Though ebony ink has swelled in my soul, its poison cannot consume me whole. A pitter-patter, a gentle hum, one with nature I become.”
– Joel Robison, conceptual photographer based out of British Columbia, Canada
Help us explore the complex connections between men's mental health and their romantic relationships by participating in the Men and Relationships Study. Your insights will contribute to a deeper understanding of how relationships impact well-being, helping to shape better mental health support for men.
Participants may enter a draw for one of four $100 prepaid Mastercards.
Take the survey today and be part of this important research.