Most men are told that they can't express their emotions, but a new community group is hoping to change that perception.
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Brothers 4 brothers men's group is an initiative started by Thomas Simpson in response to his own mental health struggles and those of his friends.
"This was an idea in my head about four months ago and the community response and feedback on Facebook has been good," he said.
"I felt the need to do it because I've seen mates struggling with anxiety and depression as well as dealing with my own mental health issues and trying to break down the stigma around asking for help.
"I want them to come around and feel they can talk about absolutely anything, depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol addiction. We have a game of touch, a barbecue and a bit of a laugh and if anyone wants to open up they can.
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"I'm just trying to help people if I can, in any way, it doesn't mean they have to come down and open up at the men's group.
"I'm over seeing people struggle with their issues and feel like they have no one to turn to. I want people to know someone is always there to listen at the end of the day," he said.
Mr Simpson said an influence on the group was the work of his cousin Joe Williams.
"I want to build stronger men for the children in the community, role models for the younger generation coming through.
"I'd also like to organise family fun days throughout the year, to empower men so they feel like they are doing something in the community and get them more engaged in the community.
"My ultimate goal to have people come sit down, talk and open up, to show them that there are resources out there they can use," he said.
He said the group was open to all men in the community to come, enjoy each other's company and learn.
"It's open to anybody, not just Indigenous men, it's a community men's group. As I said on Facebook depression and anxiety doesn't discriminate against anybody," he said.
"I'd also like to try and bridge that gap between non-Indigenous and Indigenous people, to create a better understanding on both sides about culture is another goal of the group.
"It's somewhere they can go and talk if they wan't to talk, I'm tired of seeing men struggle because of the perception that a man has to be tough and can't show any emotions," he said.
Mr Simpson said he had already had support for individuals but would appreciate more community input.
"Albert Murray is on board, whenever I need help he's seen me, the Neighbourhood Centre have been good and given me support," he said.
"I'm hoping to organise Joe for a talk and I've got Warren Williams on board. Any community input into the group are welcome, this isn't my men's group, it's a community group.
"So if anyone in the wider community wants to help in anyway or has any suggestions, drop me a message on the Brothers 4 brothers Mens group Facebook page," he said.
Mr Simpson said the group's meetings would be held on the last Monday of every month.
"The next meeting will be on March 30 at River Park, just show up, have a yarn and if you want to open up you can," he said.
"I don't want people to feel they are obligated to talk about their issues, it can just be a group where you can get out meet new people."
