MEN in Clydebank are being urged to speak out openly and honestly when they are finding life tough.

The advice is part of a new campaign by the Samaritans who say there is still a stigma around men seeking help when they are struggling to cope.

A survey by the organisation showed that more than a third of males in Scotland aged 20-59 do not seek support when they need to because they prefer to solve their problems themselves.

The survey also showed that men often don’t want to feel like a burden and don’t feel their problems will be understood.

The Samaritans are launching a campaign, supported by National Rail, called Real People, Real Stories.

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The campaign sees men who have overcome tough times sharing their stories to encourage other men, aged 20 to 59, who are most at risk of suicide, to seek help by contacting Samaritans 24/7 free on 116 123 or at Samaritans.org.

James Jopling, executive director of Samaritans Scotland, said: “It’s clear that too many men in Scotland continue to struggle alone.

“While our survey found 80 per cent of men in Scotland say it’s okay to admit you’re not feeling okay, many still avoid speaking out when they’re finding life tough.

“A quarter of men in Scotland said they felt their problems weren’t important enough to warrant calling a helpline, which is one of the reasons this awareness campaign is so important.

“By sharing positive and hopeful stories, we want to send the message to men in Scotland, that whatever they’re going through, they don’t need to face it on their own.

“Speaking openly and honestly about what you’re experiencing – whether it’s with a loved one, a friend or through a confidential and non-judgemental service like Samaritans – can make real difference.”

In the survey, men in Scotland cited a number of reasons why they’ve struggled in the past, including debt or financial worries, relationship breakdown or family problems, loneliness or isolation and job loss or job-related problems.

To find out more, go to samaritans.org/realpeoplerealstories