Vicky Midwood

RAW CHATTER!

Vicky Midwood

  • From Cocaine to Compassion: How One Man’s Grief Sparked a Mental Health Revolution

From Cocaine to Compassion: How One Man’s Grief Sparked a Mental Health Revolution

Tuesday 7th October 2025

Explore Chris Hemmings' journey from addiction to founding Men's Therapy Hub, breaking barriers for men's mental health support.
44 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Supportive
Honest
Encouraging

About this podcast

RAW CHATTER!
Author:
Vicky Midwood
Overview:
Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Sobriety Toolkit
Spiritual & Personal Growth Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Links:
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From Grief to Growth: A Man's Journey to Mental Health Advocacy

Episode Overview

  • Men face unique challenges with masculinity and shame.
  • Half of men drop out of therapy due to feeling misunderstood.
  • 'Talking like men' in therapy can enhance healing.
  • Men's Therapy Hub provides male therapists for male clients.
  • Creating non-judgmental spaces encourages men to seek help.
"We need to get more men into therapy on both sides of the sofa."
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? This episode of RAW CHATTER! takes you on a powerful ride through the life of Chris Hemmings, a former BBC journalist who transformed his grief and addiction into a mission for mental health reform. Hosted by Vicky Midwood, known as The Addiction Eliminator, the conversation is both candid and enlightening, as Chris shares how his personal struggles with cocaine and burnout led him to establish the Men's Therapy Hub.
This groundbreaking initiative is the UK's first directory of male therapists specifically for male clients, aiming to break down the barriers men face in seeking mental health support. Chris opens up about the challenges men encounter with masculinity, shame, and the societal pressures that often silence them. He highlights startling statistics about male suicide and therapy dropout rates, stressing the need for a space where men can express themselves without judgment.
With a touch of humour, Chris explains how 'talking like men' in therapy can be more effective, offering a relatable and direct approach. This episode isn't just about Chris's journey; it's a call to action for all men to embrace therapy as a tool for healing and growth. With insights into the unique needs of male clients, Chris and Vicky discuss how to create a supportive environment that encourages men to engage with their mental health.
Whether you're a man considering therapy or someone with men in your life, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that could spark important conversations. So, what does it truly mean to be a man in today's world? And how can we better support each other in the journey to mental wellness? Dive into this episode to find out.
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