From Loss to Action: Mentell Chair Shares Her Powerful Message of Hope

Last year, Angela Pownall, chair of trustees for Mentell, carried the Baton of Hope through Derbyshire, bringing a message of life, resilience, and connection. The Baton shines a light on men’s mental health, sparks vital conversations, and guides people toward lifesaving support. For Angela, it was deeply personal, a way to turn grief into action and bring hope to her community. As Mentell carries the baton again this year, we sat down with Angela to hear her reflections on the power of hope and the role Mentell plays in supporting men in need.

‍

What did carrying the Baton of Hope mean to you personally?

Carry the baton helped me and my family focus on something positive.  Finding hope after a loss of a family member can be difficult in any circumstance but this experience was life changing for us.  Due to our involvement, we were spurred on to organise a local celebration event which enabled us to bring information and hope back to many more members of our community during a day of activities in the High Peak of Derbyshire.  We were also able to share the message of hope and suicide prevention training via a free 20-minute course which many people accessed.  Additionally, we were able to share the information about Mentell and other mental health support services with local citizens.

Why is suicide prevention and men’s mental health a cause that matters to you?

Having experienced the extreme pain and heartache of losing two family members to suicide we were honoured to carry the baton of hope on its first tour of the country. We know too well that men often fail to reach out for support.  Events such as this helps to signpost people to support and reduces the stigma so often associated with mental health particularly for men.  Asking for help when needed the most is imperative.  Hearing the voice of other men in groups such as Mentell sends a narrative that it is certainly Ok to ask for support.

How do you feel initiatives like the Baton of Hope can help break stigma and spark conversation?

Bringing suicide prevention and postvention support out of the shadows and into the limelight of the public arena via media attention and campaigns such as the baton of hope is a huge step forward.  Conversations are a great enabler, awareness of how to support someone who you may know can be lifesaving.

As a trustee, what role do you see Mentell playing in creating lasting change in this space?

As a trustee of Mentell I believe it is our role to be present in our community, offering support, reassurance, and a place of safety for men to gather and feel confident that they can share concerns, worries or fears allows men to free themselves of stress anxiety and distress.

If you could share one message of hope to men struggling right now, what would it be?

Don't give up, reach out to the people and support around you, there are many people ready to help you.  Hold on, your storm will pass, I promise.

‍

Be part of our community and stay connected with Mentell. Sign up for our newsletter to hear stories, updates, and ways to support men’s mental health: Stay in touch.

‍