The number of men who take their own life exceeds that of women many times over. The biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK is suicide.

It’s a difficult subject to talk about, but these facts cannot, and should not, be ignored.

There are many reasons why someone may feel their life is no longer worth living. I won’t pretend that all problems can be easily sorted out, and all situations resolved.

However, for many men who contemplate taking their own life, the build-up to that point has not always been obvious to those around them, such as their families and colleagues.

Quite often when someone has died by suicide those around them just did not see it coming. ‘If only they had said something’ is a common reaction.

This could indicate that the men in question did not talk to their families and friends or reach out elsewhere.

There could, of course, be many reasons for this, not least the fact that traditionally men find it difficult to talk.

Part of this can perhaps be put down to society in general and the traditional expectations. Things such as ‘Boys don’t cry’, ‘Men shouldn’t get scared’, ‘A man should provide for his family’. How many times do we hear the expression ‘man up’?

All of these things can become buried deep into someone’s subconscious and can really play on their mind when they are already in a difficult situation.

They can add to the inability to see a positive way forward.

Let’s face it – if you are overwhelmed by things, if you cannot see a way out – then the thought of even trying to get things sorted by yourself will make you feel even more isolated and scared.

If you really are struggling, or know of someone who may be, there really is a lot of help out there.

Just imagine for a moment if you could meet with other guys in an atmosphere where you can feel supported, understood, and realise that you are not alone.

Well, the good news is there are numerous groups, including some great local ones where men can go along and chat with others.

They offer a chance for people to feel supported, understood and to help them to know they are not alone, no matter how bad things may seem.

Andy’s Man club is one such organisation and have regular meet-ups on a Monday at 7pm in Warrington, Macclesfield and Congleton. You can find out more on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/andysmanclub or at www.andysmanclub.co.uk

The national organisation CALM has a freephone number open every evening 6pm to midnight ‘Campaign Against Living Miserably’ 0800 585858 www.thecalmzone.net

As always please remember, if you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, go to A&E, call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258.