Every Thursday afternoon since October 2024, about a dozen men have gathered under the bright lights in The Royal's Client and Family Resource Hub for something that might seem simple but isn't – honest conversations about some of life's biggest challenges.
The men's group is a weekly, drop-in where men can talk openly about their mental health, relationships, goals, and struggles — and listen, support, and learn from each other.
"Sometimes you just need a place to feel safe to talk, where you won't feel alone," describes Andrew Jarrette, the group’s volunteer facilitator. "That's what men's group is about."
While men have historically been the default focus in medicine and research, many still struggle when it comes to emotional well-being. Cultural expectations and stigma around masculinity and mental health can make it difficult for men to express vulnerability and reach out for help.
"Stigma, isolation, and gender norms keep many men from accessing care," says Kevin Patrick, supervisor of the Hub. "This group is helping to close that gap by creating a safe, inclusive, non-clinical space — creating accessible programming that meets people where they are, and reflects who they are.
The men's group started in fall 2024 after a long hiatus. Jarrette, a member of The Royal's Client Advisory Council, had previously attended the group in a different format. When the opportunity arose to bring it back — this time as a peer-led pilot project — he stepped up.
Sessions are open to patients and former patients of The Royal and follow a consistent format. After a check-in and a reminder about confidentiality and respectful sharing, participants take turns discussing whatever is on their minds. Common topics range from dating and job hunting to upcoming court cases and family challenges.
"In our men's group, we have talked about separation from our partners and share our thoughts and struggles about the situation," reflects Patrick. "There's non-judgmental discussion, and the men receive support. It's a great sounding board."
Attendance varies, but many participants return regularly. One of the best parts of the group, says Jarrette, is celebrating the big and small wins together.
"Stigma, isolation, and gender norms keep many men from accessing care," says Kevin Patrick, supervisor of the Hub. "This group is helping to close that gap by creating a safe, inclusive, non-clinical space — creating accessible programming that meets people where they are, and reflects who they are."
Jarrette recalls one participant who had been overwhelmed with anxiety about housing and an upcoming court appearance. "He kept coming to group, and over time, his anxiety dropped. He found a place to live. He still had uncertainty but it helped to have people to talk to."
Another man, estranged from his children for years, reconnected with them after a fellow participant simply suggested, "Why not Google them?"
"It's not a clinical space. It's not about diagnoses or treatment plans, it's just people supporting each other," says Jarrette. "And they make real connections, friendships that continue outside the group."
So far, the feedback has been positive. "We've never had someone say it wasn't worth it," says Jarrette. "The fact that people come back, that says it all."
The group is a quiet but powerful example of how gender-sensitive, peer-informed programming can make a difference.
While the men's group can't offer clinical care or crisis support, it does something that's often harder to find: real connection. "Hearing someone else's story makes you feel like you're not alone. It validates your experience," says Jarrette.
The men's group will continue throughout the summer, and although it was originally set up as a pilot project, there is no end date in sight.
"We will go as long as there's a demand for it, as long as people show up," he says.