Writing is more than just putting words on a page—it can be a powerful tool for mental health. Dr. Rachel Matthews, an author and creative writing lecturer at RMIT, has seen firsthand how writing can help men process emotions, navigate challenges, and even combat feelings of isolation.

The Mental Health Crisis Among Men

Mental health struggles among men are increasing. “Every week, 46 men take their own lives,” Dr. Matthews shared. Depression and anxiety are on the rise, yet many men find it difficult to express their feelings. “Men often come to my workshops with a lot of trepidation,” she said. “They say, ‘I’ve always wanted to write, but I’ve never done anything like this before.’”

Why Writing Matters

Writing provides a safe space to process emotions that might feel overwhelming in conversation. In one of Dr. Matthews’ workshops, a young man wrote about losing his father. “As he read his piece, the group was deeply moved,” she recalled. “He was surprised at how deeply he could express his grief and how good it felt to get it down.”

This emotional release is a key benefit of writing. “It allows people to articulate feelings they might struggle to express verbally,” she explained.

The Science Behind Writing and Mental Health

Scientific research supports the mental health benefits of writing. Dr. Matthews highlighted that “handwriting stimulates electrical activity in the brain in a way that typing does not.” Writing by hand has been shown to:

  • Boost memory and recall
  • Improve emotional processing
  • Help release serotonin, which regulates mood

“Writing can help us navigate trauma, express feelings of isolation, and even create connections with others,” she said.

Overcoming Stereotypes and Encouraging Expression

Society often tells men they must be tough, stoic, and independent. “From a young age, many boys hear phrases like ‘don’t cry’ or ‘man up,’ which shape how they express emotions,” Dr. Matthews noted. “These unrealistic expectations can follow them into adulthood.”

Her novel Never Look Desperate explores this theme through a character named Bernard. “He’s not the stereotypical ‘macho’ man. He’s an artistic, funny, and deeply lonely individual struggling to process grief,” she explained. “I wanted to celebrate men like Bernard—men who don’t fit outdated masculine stereotypes.”

How to Start a Writing Practice

If you’re new to writing, don’t let the pressure of crafting perfect sentences hold you back. Dr. Matthews offers these tips:

  • Start small – Write a few keywords or bullet points instead of full sentences.
  • Use prompts – Imagine telling a friend about an experience, then write it down.
  • Find a safe space – Consider joining a writing group or sharing your work with someone you trust.
  • Take breaks – If emotions become overwhelming, step away and return when ready.

“Writing is an ancient way of understanding ourselves,” she said. “It reminds us we are not alone.”

The Tough Guy Book Club: A Unique Space for Men

For those looking to connect with others through writing and reading, the Tough Guy Book Club offers a welcoming space. Founded in 2012, it hosts men’s book clubs in pubs and even tattoo parlors. “It’s a place where men can talk about books, ideas, and life,” Dr. Matthews said. “And it challenges outdated ideas of what a pub should be.”

Writing as a Lifeline

A listener texted during the interview: “When I was 16, I picked up a pen, and writing became my outlet instead of self-harm.” This simple act changed their life.

Dr. Matthews hopes more men will embrace writing as a tool for healing. “Whatever means we find to express our struggles and joys, we should celebrate them,” she said. “Writing is a way to say, ‘This is my story, and I want to share it.’”