Men’s Mental Health

July is here, and you know what that means. School is out for summer, vacations have begun, and the rhythm of life shifts. For many of us, it’s the season we look forward to all year.

June was Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and as someone who lost a beloved family member last year to mental health struggles, I want to take every opportunity to shed light on something that too often remains in the dark.

Men’s mental health is often called a “silent epidemic” because statistically and historically, men are far less likely to speak openly about what they’re experiencing. More than 6 million men struggle with depression each year, and men die by suicide nearly four times more often than women. It’s time we challenge the stigma, start more conversations, and come together to be part of the change.

As a mom raising a son, I have never felt more compelled to lean into the challenges many men face and help create safe spaces where both men and women feel supported, seen, and heard.

Losing my uncle Sammy, a man who was the sunshine in everyone’s day, who appeared to have everything together on the outside while carrying so much on the inside: was a heartbreaking reminder that many men are not OK. At his funeral, someone shared a statistic with me that has stayed in my heart ever since: many men will only receive flowers at their funeral.

That realization hit hard. Much deeper than the flowers.

This summer, I’m bringing together our village community for a special paddle out and circle in Capitola to honor those we love who have struggled with mental health, remember those we’ve lost, and create space for meaningful connection and conversation. Capitola Beach July 11 9am I would love for you to join us.

Alongside the gathering, I wanted to share a few local resources and people doing incredible work in our community.

Maria, owner of Pretty Petals Arrangements, believes deeply that men deserve to feel appreciated and celebrated too. She and I have talked about how meaningful it can be to receive flowers: not because of the flowers themselves, but because of what they represent: love, gratitude, acknowledgment, and care.

Maybe this is your reminder to send flowers to a man you love.

I’ve started asking men what their favorite flower is, and it’s been fascinating how many have an answer, and how many admit they would genuinely love to receive them.

Pretty Petals Arrangements will be partnering with us for the event and helping us spread awareness around men’s mental health.

The team at Capitola Beach Company helped organize a paddle out for my uncle last year, and I witnessed firsthand the healing power of being in the ocean together. Whether through surfing, paddling, or simply spending time near the water, movement and nature are powerful tools for mental wellness.

If you or someone you know has ever wanted to get into the water, Matt and Jill at the shop are wonderful resources for lessons, rentals, and support.

Sam Kabert, emotional fitness trainer + speaker is also a local entrepreneur who runs a powerful breathwork community and advocates for emotional fitness, especially for men. He has openly shared parts of his own journey and is passionate about helping others heal through breathwork and mindfulness practices.

Last but not least, Brittani Bolke, a transformation coach and Reiki healer, will be joining us as well. Through her work, she helps people feel seen, heard, and supported while honoring the emotions that make us human.

One thing I’ve learned is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing.

Sometimes the most profound shifts begin with a single moment. One conversation. One invitation. One reminder that you are not alone.

As we move through this summer, I hope you’ll take a moment to check in on the men in your life. Call your strong friend. Ask your husband how he’s really doing. Create space for your son, brother, father, or colleague to share openly.

You never know what someone may be carrying underneath it all.

And sometimes, feeling seen can change everything. May we remember we are all divinely connected this summer and support one another.