Revelstoke support network celebrates Men’s Health Month - Today in BC
Published 11:45 am Wednesday, June 24, 2026By Yzabelle BostynWARNING:This article contains content which may be distressing to some readers. Reader discretion is advised. If you feel like you are in crisis or. . .
Published 11:45 am Wednesday, June 24, 2026By Yzabelle BostynWARNING:This article contains content which may be distressing to some readers. Reader discretion is advised. If you feel like you are in crisis or are considering suicide, please call the Crisis Centre BC suicide hotline at 1-800-784-2433. Other resources include: Canada Suicide Prevention Service at Toll free: 1-833-456-4566, the Crisis Line at 310-6789 or 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433): For suicide prevention and intervention. You can also text 45645 or visit the online chat service atcrisisservicescanada. ca. Every day, nearly 10 Canadian men take their lives. That’s 3,560 suicides per year, with men accounting for three in four across the country. It’s shocking statistics such as this that led Jake Stanfield, 31, to start Revelstoke Men’s Night in 2024. Email newsletter signupHeld at Mountain Archives every first Monday evening of the month, these meetings offer a free and open space for men to express themselves while building support networks, friendships and community. “I felt the need for a safe, sober space for men to chat,” Stanfield told Black Press Media. “I’ve lost friends to suicide. By doing this, I’m hoping we can support men in a really accessible way. ”READ:Man running Vancouver to Ontario for $100K mental health fundraiserThe Brit was inspired by similar schemes in Squamish and Golden, which highlighted a particular need in resort towns such as Revelstoke. “An underlying theme throughout the evenings is addiction — whether that’s to drugs, alcohol, games, food or pornography,” he shared. “It’s especially hard to abstain from alcohol in towns like this because when you’ve had a great ride or a powder day, it’s always celebrated with a cold beer. It’s so intertwined with life here, but I think community is the solution to addiction. ”Men are likelier than women to use substances regularly, and also represent nearly three in four toxic drug deaths, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). Loneliness, Stanfield said, is also a big barrier facing men in Revelstoke. “It can be really hard to make friends here if you aren’t into skiing, biking or other sports,” he added. “It can be a really intimidating environment. ”CMHA notes that strong social connections are among the most important ways to protect mental health. Stanfield encourages the Revelstoke community to help male loved ones by reaching out and creating safe spaces for them to talk. And June, Men’s Health Month, has provided the perfect time to begin this habit. READ:Regional doctor suggests more naloxone, drug checks as Revelstoke overdoses drop“With conversation comes education and that leads to compassion,” Stanfield said. “Men have to support men, but in terms of what everyone can do, if you haven’t spoken to a certain friend in a while, reach out. ”For practical ways to check in on male friends or colleagues, CMHA recommends organizing a shared activity and choosing a comfortable setting that allows them to feel relaxed. The Revelstoke Men’s Night community welcomes all ages, backgrounds, religions and sexual orientations to join the conversation at Mountain Archives, the first Monday of each month from 7 to 8 p. m. For questions, contact Stanfield at 250-214-0304.