In the UK, a transformative movement is taking place where men are gathering in intimate circles to talk openly and honestly about their feelings, mental health, and personal struggles. These men’s circles—whether in-person or online—are offering a space for men to speak up, break down emotional barriers, and redefine traditional masculine norms.
The concept of men coming together to share their personal experiences is not new, but it has gained significant traction in recent years. The idea is simple: men sit in a circle and take turns speaking for eight minutes, sharing whatever is on their minds, without judgment. This seemingly simple structure has profound effects, as it creates an environment where men feel heard, supported, and understood.
At a typical session, such as Men’s Circle or Andy’s Man Club, participants are encouraged to share their emotions, challenges, and experiences with vulnerability, breaking the cycle of silence that many men often experience. The facilitator’s role is to ensure that the group remains respectful and that everyone has a chance to speak, but the real magic happens when men start to open up. What often begins as a hesitant and shy sharing transforms into an outpouring of raw emotion. And, surprisingly, most men talk during their first session.
As men begin to share, they uncover deep-rooted feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and unspoken fears. These circles give them the tools and space to reflect on what is often suppressed or ignored in everyday life. The act of verbalizing one’s struggles with other men who truly listen is an experience that many men, unfamiliar with such openness, find healing and cathartic.
The men who attend these circles often face issues such as toxic masculinity, mental health challenges, emotional repression, and societal expectations. With suicide rates among men being alarmingly high, particularly in the UK, these gatherings serve as a preventive measure, offering an outlet that reduces isolation and helps men confront their vulnerabilities. These circles focus not only on personal well-being but on redefining masculinity itself—moving away from traditional ideals of “toughness” and embracing a broader spectrum of what it means to be a man.
Pasco Ashton, the executive director of Men’s Circle, shares that the group’s mission is to foster vulnerability among men. Many participants, including himself, have expressed the profound sense of disconnection they felt with other men, which led them to seek out such spaces. A key factor in the success of these circles is the sense of camaraderie and non-judgment that participants feel. When a man speaks about his struggles, others often relate to his experience, leading to a sense of unity and shared understanding.
While men’s circles provide a structured format for sharing, the benefits go far beyond talking. They offer a community, a group of like-minded individuals with whom men can forge real connections. For some, the circles have become more than just a mental health resource; they have become a social network, where men bond over shared experiences, finding new friends and support in a non-competitive, empathetic environment.
Although the circles aim to focus on masculinity, they also help men delve into more personal and intimate topics. Sex, intimacy, relationships, and family are often explored in these circles, which helps to expand the conversation beyond surface-level issues. The discussions are honest, straightforward, and real—qualities that men often lack in other aspects of their lives.
One of the things that stand out in these sessions is the impact on a man’s emotional health. A participant who attends a session may come in feeling drained, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to deal with his mental health. After participating, he may leave feeling lighter, more relaxed, and equipped with new insights into his emotions. Many men report feeling a deep sense of relief after speaking their truth in front of a group that listens without judgment.
A key feature of these circles is that they challenge the idea of toxic masculinity—an outdated concept that glorifies emotional suppression and overemphasis on strength. In these spaces, men are encouraged to explore and express their emotions without fear of being labeled weak or vulnerable. By rethinking masculinity and mental health, these groups challenge stereotypes and stigmas, and encourage men to embrace their emotions.
In addition to emotional health, the circles offer physical benefits. Participants often report improved mood, better sleep, and a decrease in physical symptoms of stress, such as headaches and muscle tension. The act of sharing one’s thoughts and feelings is a form of emotional release that directly impacts overall well-being.
However, as with any new initiative, there are challenges to overcome. For many men, talking openly about their emotions is difficult due to societal pressures and ingrained ideas about masculinity. The circle environment provides a supportive atmosphere, but some men may still struggle to open up, especially in the beginning. That’s why regular attendance is crucial. As men continue to return to the circles, they build a sense of trust and familiarity that makes it easier to open up.
The success of these circles is also seen in the high retention rates among attendees. Most men don’t just attend once and never return—they continue to come back for ongoing support, showing that these spaces are essential for their mental and emotional well-being. The circles offer more than just a one-time outlet; they are ongoing communities that men can rely on, ensuring that they don’t have to go through their struggles alone.
Despite the clear benefits of men’s circles, there is still work to be done in making these spaces accessible to more men. Currently, these groups are more common in urban areas, but the hope is that they will expand to reach more men, especially those in rural or isolated locations. The growth of these circles, such as Men’s Circle, Andy’s Man Club, and others, is a positive step in the right direction, but the movement still needs support to reach a wider audience.
In conclusion, men’s talking circles are revolutionizing the way men engage with their emotions, their mental health, and each other. These circles provide a safe, non-judgmental space for men to speak openly about their feelings, confront their mental health challenges, and redefine masculinity in a healthier, more inclusive way. As this movement continues to grow, it has the potential to save lives, foster deeper connections, and transform the way men interact with their emotions and each other. Through vulnerability and connection, men are learning that they don’t have to suffer in silence—they can speak up and find support in these transformative circles.