Austin Fitness Group Men in the Arena Aims to Break Mental Health Barriers for Men

A group of men in Austin are intentionally exposing themselves to demanding and challenging situations to address mental health issues and combat the stigma associated with men seeking assistance.

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The fitness group Men in the Arena, established in May 2023 by Braydon "Bray" Alley, aims to normalize vulnerability. Alley, 32, discloses his mental health challenges to the group to develop an environment in which males are at ease discussing their experiences.

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Ten years ago, Alley revealed, "I nearly took my own life, and it seemed like the most straightforward choice." His birthday on May 5th serves as a reminder of his voyage. Alley was forced to live in seclusion for a year after learning that his 21-year-old cousin had committed suicide on his birthday in 2021.

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Alley stated, "I did not feel complete." "Thoughts of suicide resurfaced, but eventually, I realized I needed to help others."

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Men in the Arena, co-founded by Yash Chitneni and CJ Finley, provides a community for men to address mental health challenges. According to research conducted by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety or depression affects nearly one in ten men; however, less than half of them pursue treatment as a result of societal pressures.

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Mental health professionals caution that males are also at a higher risk of suicide, which underscores the significance of initiatives such as Alley's group.

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