In this powerful episode of No Man’s an Island, Chris Hemmings speaks with Ben West – mental health campaigner, author and government advisor whose work has helped change how the UK approaches suicide prevention and mental health education.
Ben shares his deeply personal story of losing his younger brother Sam to suicide at 15, and how that tragedy reshaped his life. What began as grief became a mission to stop others experiencing the same pain. His petition for mental health training in schools reached over 300,000 signatures and led to meetings with the Prime Minister.
Together, Chris and Ben explore grief, guilt, resilience and hope – and the long road from shock to activism. They discuss therapy, trauma, emotional regulation and the importance of creating safe, informed environments for young people to talk. This conversation reminds us that progress isn’t instant – it’s built through courage, compassion and small consistent steps toward change.
What we cover
- Ben’s story of losing his brother Sam and the impact of grief as a teenager
- How avoidance, numbness and guilt shape early grief responses
- What schools and services missed in supporting Sam’s mental health
- The importance of access, quality and stigma reduction in mental health care
- How activism and campaigning became Ben’s path to healing
- The toll of advocacy work and avoiding burnout
- The real meaning of stoicism and self-awareness for men
- Ben’s reflections on therapy, EMDR and learning to process trauma
- Why he believes change in mental health systems must start with culture and education
Listen and watch
🎧 Listen to all episodes here: No Man’s an Island
🎧 YouTube: Watch on YouTube
🎧 Apple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts
🎧 Spotify: Listen on Spotify
Takeaways for men
- Avoidance can be a short-term coping strategy, but healing comes from facing feelings safely.
- Therapy isn’t about repeating the story – it’s about changing how your mind and body hold it.
- Resilience means seeking help, not suppressing pain.
- Campaigning, conversation and connection all begin with personal truth.
- You don’t need to change the world to make a difference – one honest act can change someone’s life.
Quotes to share
“Avoidance gave me respite, but healing came when I stopped running from the feelings.” – Ben West
“Sam was the first mental health campaigner in our family. He put up posters so no one felt alone.” – Ben West
“Therapy didn’t erase my memories – it took away the fear around them.” – Ben West
“Progress isn’t about changing everything overnight. It’s about showing up.” – Ben West
Resources and links
Episode credits
Host: Chris Hemmings
Guest: Ben West
Produced by: Men’s Therapy Hub
Music: Raindear
