Men’s Mental Health Support in Ely: How Walking and Talking Can Help

In my work as an anxiety therapist in Ely, one thing I’ve increasingly noticed is how many men struggle quietly with stress, anxiety and emotional overwhelm without reaching out for support.

They’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed – but they keep it to themselves.

Not because they want to, but because it can feel difficult to open up, or they’re unsure where to start.

For some, one-to-one support like hypnotherapy can be incredibly helpful. For others, a more informal first step – simply being around others who understand – can make a real difference.

That’s why I wanted to share a local resource here in Ely that I’ve recently connected with and that is actively helping many local mean to connect and improve their mental health.

 

A Local Group Supporting Men in Ely

Men Walking and Talking Ely was set up after its founder, James Clements, was inspired by a BBC feature about the wider Men Walking and Talking initiative.

The Ely group launched on 15th July 2025 and has been offering a simple but powerful form of support ever since.

James has his own personal experience with mental health challenges, having struggled since the age of 15 following the death of his sister. That lived experience is part of what makes the group feel so genuine, understanding and welcoming.

 

What Is Men Walking and Talking Ely?

At its core, the group is exactly what it sounds like.

A walking group. A chance to get outside. And an opportunity, if you want to, to talk.

But importantly, there’s no pressure at all.

When someone first attends, they are simply introduced to the group. It’s a non-judgemental space, and you’re free to:

• Talk openly
• Listen quietly
• Or just walk alongside others

There’s no expectation to share anything personal.

Many people find it easier to open up naturally over time, but equally, just being there can be enough.

 

A Safe, Relaxed and Supportive Environment

The group is described as relaxed, friendly and welcoming.

Everyone is treated as an individual, and new walkers are encouraged to go at their own pace, both physically and emotionally.

James leads the Ely walks and is there to support attendees, including helping to signpost to additional support if needed, such as charities or other organisations.

That balance is important. It’s not therapy – but it is support.

And for many people, that can be exactly what’s needed.

James has also been active in setting up more groups across the East – something that only someone who is dedicated and inspired to help others could achieve.

 

Why This Kind of Support Can Help

When anxiety or low mood builds, it’s very common to withdraw.

You might:

• Keep things to yourself
• Feel isolated
• Overthink more
• Or struggle to talk to people close to you

Being around others, even without talking, can begin to gently shift that.

Walking side-by-side often feels easier than sitting face-to-face.

There’s less pressure. And over time, many people find that conversation starts to happen naturally.

 

Therapy and Support Groups: Working Together

For some people, a group like this is a helpful first step.

For others, it works alongside more structured support.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, panic, or ongoing stress, having space to talk things through in more depth can also be important.

There’s no pressure, just options.

 

A Simple Way to Get Started

Men Walking and Talking Ely runs weekly:

• When: Every Tuesday
• Where: Barton Road Car Park, Ely (CB7 4HZ)
• Who: Open to any man who wants to attend
• Contact: James Clements

There’s no requirement to attend every week, you can attend as and when it feels right for you.

You can find more details here: Men Walking and Talking Ely

 

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been struggling with how you’ve been feeling, it’s easy to think you need to “sort it out” on your own.

But you don’t.

Support can take different forms – and sometimes, the simplest step is just turning up.

Whether that’s a group like this, or speaking to someone one-to-one, things can begin to feel more manageable when you’re not dealing with it alone.

You can learn more about anxiety and related issues here: Understanding Anxiety in Ely

 

Free Consultation

Many people who initially struggled to talk openly about anxiety, stress or panic attacks have shared their experiences after sessions, including detailed reviews and case studies.

Over the years I’ve increasingly specialised in supporting people with anxiety, panic attacks, stress and confidence issues in Ely and the surrounding area.

And if anxiety, stress or overwhelm have been affecting your day-to-day life, support is available.

You can learn more about anxiety support here: Anxiety hypnotherapy in Ely

Or arrange a free consultation to talk things through.

To your health and happiness,

Dan Regan

Anxiety Therapy and Hypnotherapy in Ely and Newmarket

 

Could you use some help with your anxiety? Struggling with anxiety, stress, worry and fear and need some help? Find out how I can help with a Free Initial Consultation. Learn more here: Appointments

Find out what hundreds of other people have said after their anxiety hypnotherapy sessions with Dan: Hypnotherapy Testimonials

And check out these popular and powerful hypnosis downloads that can start helping you right away with anxiety, confidence and more: Hypnosis Downloads