‘You just feel so helpless. You feel that there is no way out, you feel like I am so totally stuck in this place.’
How many men face mental health challenges due to work or life stressors but feel unable to talk about it? Statistics show it is a lot more than we may even realise.
Jo’s interview with Chris opens up a raw and honest conversation about the mental health challenges many men today face. From working in ministry to wrestling with his own mental health, Chris shares the importance of talking and connecting with others. His advice? – ‘Don’t suffer in silence.’
Listen in to Messages of hope this week to hear Chris and Jo discuss Chris’ journey, hear a story of mateship, and find out about the study Bible that brought hope.
Listen to the episode
Key takeaways from this episode
Men often struggle in silence with mental health. Chris Battistuzzi shares how societal expectations around masculinity made it hard for him to admit he was struggling with anxiety and depression.
Stress can trigger serious mental health issues. Long-term stress from work and personal life gradually wore Chris down, eventually leading to a diagnosis of clinical depression and anxiety.
Recovery is slow, but possible. Chris describes his healing as a day-by-day journey. Support from professionals, faith, and close friends helped him regain hope and stability.
Authentic male friendships are vital. Chris emphasises the importance of honest conversations with other men—mates who can sit with you in the dark and say, “I’ve been here before. I know the way out.”
Identity plays a big role in men’s mental health. Many men struggle with a lack of purpose or self-worth. Chris found grounding in his faith and the character of Jesus as a model for healthy masculinity.
Don’t suffer in silence—get help. Whether it’s counselling, medication, or simply a listening ear, taking the first step to seek support can be life-changing. You’re not weak—you’re taking responsibility.
Episode transcript
Click to view PDF transcript
Related booklet
Depression affects people from all ages, races, economic groups and genders. It can result from a specific event or a chemical imbalance in the nervous system. The causes are numerous but understanding the causes of depression should be considered before it can be managed.
Watch related video
Did this give you some hope today?
Consider donating so we can continue creating resources to share hope with others.
Have hope-filled messages delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for our weekly Messages of hope email.
- 1800 353 350
- enquiry@messagesofhope.org.au
- PO Box 731, North Adelaide SA 5006
- 197 Archer Street, North Adelaide SA 5006