Michael O’Mara Books to publish men's mental health book with Mind

Michael O’Mara Books is publishing a book packed with advice on men’s mental health in association with charity Mind.

This Book Could Help: The Men’s Head Space Manual – Techniques and Exercises for Living has been written by Rotimi Akinsete, a therapeutic counsellor and director of wellbeing at the University of Surrey. It will be published on 2nd May 2019, just ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week from 13th to 19th May.

It offers practical advice to help men meet challenges, manage stress and think about their work and life goals. Endorsements have come from explorer Levison Wood, former Premier League footballer Clarke Carlisle, actor Nicholas Pinnock and ex-Olympian Colin Jackson.

Akinsete said: “The idea that men should ‘man up’ and not talk about their mental health or concerns is now deeply outdated - it’s about time that we feel comfortable talking about our problems and concerns, in a way that could end up saving lives. This book is for everyone, whether you’re currently struggling with a mental health problem or not, to help and encourage men to think differently about their mental health.”

World all language rights were acquired by deputy editorial director Fiona Slater in a direct deal with Mind. All author royalties will go to the charity.

Slater said: “Your body needs maintaining to keep it healthy, and so does your mind. It sounds simple but there are many tired and unhelpful ideas out there that tell men how they ought to be, so this vital message gets lost. The results speak for themselves: suicide is the biggest killer of men under 45. Taking care of your head space should be as normal as eating your five-a-day or going to the gym.”

Kathleen Miles, director of fundraising at Mind, added: “We’re pleased to be partnering with Michael O’Mara Books to publish such an important manual. We know that men can find it particularly difficult to speak about their experiences of mental health problems and seek support if they need it. This book offers information and practical advice so men can gain a better understanding of mental health and practice some useful self-care techniques.”