On International Men’s Day (Tuesday, 19 November), Jan Godden is bringing attention to the critical issue of men’s mental health while honouring her son, Joe, who was deeply committed to the cause before his passing earlier this year.

Joe was only 28 when he died suddenly in April 2024, and mum Jan, from Romsey, wants to raise awareness of mental health in men as a legacy for her son, while also supporting Solent Mind.

Jan said: “Joe was a strong believer in getting help for mental health, especially for men. He struggled with his own mental health over the years, and he wanted to highlight how important it is for men his age to talk about what’s going on for them.

“He was a great supporter of Solent Mind and fundraised in aid of the mental health charity on a number of occasions.”

An aspiring musician, Joe played the guitar. It was during the Covid pandemic when he performed live online ‘sofa gigs’ from his home via YouTube. Viewers could request a song of their choice in exchange for a donation to Solent Mind. He raised more than £1,000. He also ran the Southampton half marathon in 2022 in aid of our charity.

Jan added: “Raising money to support mental health was Joe’s passion, and I want to make that his legacy and continue doing what I can to support what is such an important issue.

“At Joe’s funeral service in April, instead of cards and flowers, we asked our family and friends to donate to Solent Mind. We raised more than £2,700.

“Solent Mind are doing great things to support those who need it in Hampshire, and knowing they are helping people who are struggling, just like Joe, is wonderful.”

Before Joe passed away, he was admitted to hospital seeking help. Jan is adamant that more needs to be done to help people at crisis point.

She said: “It’s critical that people know exactly where they can go to access support, and especially men, who don’t always feel comfortable to reach out if they need help.

“I want to do as much as I can to raise awareness on this subject, just as Joe was doing.”

Jan and Joe’s family and friends want to continue showing their support for Solent Mind. And, in June next year, his friends are planning a special musical fundraiser in his honour.

Sally Arscott, Solent Mind CEO, said: “We are deeply moved and incredibly grateful for both Joe and Jan’s support for Solent Mind. Joe’s legacy will live on as we continue the vital work of helping the people in our communities who need it most.”

At Solent Mind, we provide mental health support for people across Hampshire. To find our more about services near you, please visit: How to find mental health support | Solent Mind