The Men’s Table
From website The Men's Table
The Men’s Table is a safe place to share and be heard in a confidential and non-judgemental environment, creating a greater sense of belonging, camaraderie and connection. It’s healthy to show emotion and share feelings, yet for many men in their relationships with other blokes, the talk is mostly about footy and other things.
In 2011, in Australia, a group of men decided to have dinner with the intention of having a place to connect with other men, and talk about the highs and lows of their lives. They’ve been meeting once a month ever since to talk, laugh and share about what’s going on for them, and have forged meaningful relationships based on trust and acceptance of each other.
There are now over 200 Men’s Tables across the country.
Belonging to a Men’s Table contributes to mental, emotional and social wellbeing whilst being a powerful support to individual members travelling their life journeys. They help men overcome the stigma that “men don’t talk”.
Each Table is distinct and has its own personality, guided by the Fundamentals. These are practical guidelines drawn from the experience of existing Tables. All Tables are supported by the Kitchen (central office) of The Men’s Table, a registered not for profit organisation formed in 2019. Their vision is Healthy Men, Healthy Masculinities, Healthy Communities.
What has been the impact?
-
43% of men join looking for friendship and connection, 17% looking for a place to have a real conversation.
-
87% reported that the Table met their needs.
-
60% are better able to understand and manage their emotions.
-
57% reported being better able to manage if they are stressed, anxious or feeling low.
-
54% were more likely to seek professional help for their mental health when they need it.
-
49% were more likely to get a medical check-up.
-
95% of men say that their Table is a safe place to share feelings and talk about the highs and lows of their lives.
-
91% of men say that they are a better listener.
-
71% of men are less lonely.
-
75% of men say that if they were going through a rough time, they could call someone from their Table.
-
64% of men say there’s been a positive impact on their relationships outside of their Table.
-
70% of men say they are able to help other Table members seek support if they talk about suicide.
-
64% of men are better able to model healthy versions of being a man since being at a Table.
-
47% of men say they are more actively engaged in their community.
-
82% of men say they feel that they belong to a community.
As Tables endure, the impact grows.
See the 2024 impact report here.
Watch this 11 minute video:
Retweet about this article:
From website The Men's Table, 15/07/2025