Reviewed by: Pat Byington
June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. 4 local organizations offering support
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June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month! Here are 4 local organizations offering support for men’s mental health in the Birmingham area.
CRISIS RESOURCES
Emergency: Call 911
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 for 24/7 confidential support.
Birmingham Crisis Center: crisiscenterbham.org | 205.323.7777
UTalk – Youth Talk Line: 205.328.5465
A text-enabled youth hotline is available 7 days a week from 3 PM—10 PM for children aged 6—18. UTalk provides a safe, supportive place for young people in Central Alabama to process feelings and life events, both large and small.
Why men’s mental health matters in Alabama
Observed in June, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is an annual observance that aims to raise awareness about mental health resources for men.
“According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, more than 6 million men live with depression each year, men are almost 4 times as likely to die from suicide than women, and 1 in 5 men will develop alcohol dependency during their lives.
These conditions may be caused by trauma, substance abuse, health conditions, exposure to violence, family conflict, loneliness, financial problems and work-related stress.”
Crystal Mullen-Johnson, Founder and CEO, Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C.
Although mental health is just as important as physical health, millions of people in the U.S. alone suffer in silence. And for those who do choose to seek help, resources can be limited.
A recent study by Forbes (The Worst States For Mental Health Care 2024) found that Alabama is the third worst state for mental health care, with more than half of individuals with mental illness in Alabama unable to receive the health care they need due to cost.
However, there are several passionate local organizations in Birmingham doing their best to make a difference.
4 local organizations offering support
1. Birmingham Anxiety & Trauma Therapy
Birmingham Anxiety & Trauma Therapy (BATT) is team of compassionate therapists dedicated to providing support to people in need in The Magic City.
To help break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, BATT therapists offer an intimate and approachable environment where men can feel comfortable discussing their concerns without fear of judgement.
“For men who experience stigma about seeking mental health help, it’s essential to remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
More men than ever are getting therapy and it is much more normal to do so than any time in recent history.
Remember that prioritizing your mental well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling and balanced life.”
David Higgins LPC, Birmingham Anxiety & Trauma Therapy
- Birmingham Anxiety & Trauma Therapy: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Address: 100 Centerview Drive, Suite 150, Vestavia Hills AL 35216
2. Strive Counseling Services, LLC.
Located in downtown Birmingham at 115 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Suite 300, Strive Counseling Services, LLC is a minority-owned therapeutic private practice. Strive Counseling was founded by Crystal Mullen-Johnson, an award-winning therapist with over 16 years of experience in mental health counseling.
“You are not weak for seeking mental health treatment; actually, it’s a sign of strength.
The first step is acknowledging that you face challenges, and the next step is allowing yourself to receive help.
Remember, you are not alone; don’t suffer in silence.”
Crystal Mullen-Johnson, Founder and CEO, Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C.
To contact Strive Counseling, give them a call at 205.721.9893, email cmullenj@strivebhm.com or visit their website and fill out the contact form.
- Strive Counseling: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
- Address: 115 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N. Suite 300, Birmingham AL United States 35203
3. Crescent Counseling Services, LLC
Crescent Counseling Services, LLC is a minority-owned therapeutic private practice founded by Jermaine Wall, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in clinical therapy and social services.
In addition to offering clinical services, Jermaine is involved in a community-based organization, the Healthy Coping Club. Each month, the Healthy Coping Club hosts a “Men’s Coffee Talk” in Birmingham, where attendees can gather, share and learn from each other’s journeys.
“I know it’s tough with all the stigma out there about getting help but taking that step is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Joining the Barbershop or Coffee Talks can be a great, low-pressure way to break down those barriers. It’s all about finding those small steps that feel right for you.”
Jermaine Wall, Founder and Clinical Therapist, Crescent Counseling Services, LLC
- Crescent Counseling Services, LLC: 205.418.8223 | Website
- Address: 3536 Vann Road, Suite A12, Birmingham, AL 35235
4. GameDay Men’s Health
Located in Vestavia Hills, GameDay Men’s Health is a men’s health clinic offering treatments for several men’s health issues, including:
- Low testosterone
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weight loss
- Vitamin therapy
“It’s completely normal to feel hesitant or stigmatized when it comes to seeking help for health issues. Many men feel this way.
Educating yourself about the importance of men’s health can help shift your perspective. Knowledge is power, and understanding the benefits of seeking help can be a motivator.”
Athens C. McLaughlin III, Franchise Administrator, GameDay Men’s Health
- GameDay Men’s Health: Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram
- Address: 4505 Pine Tree Cir Suite 202, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
Know of other mental health resources for men in Birmingham? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know.
