In a unique initiative that combines community bonding and mental health awareness, a group of men in Utah gathers weekly in the food court of a local Costco. This initiative, dubbed the Men's Mental Health Community Club, provides a safe space for men to share their feelings, discuss mental health challenges, and foster connections that many find lacking in their daily lives. The group meets in Orem, Utah, and has quickly become a vital resource for men seeking emotional support in a society where such discussions are often stigmatized. Jaxon Smith, the founder of the Men's Mental Health Community Club, started this gathering approximately two months ago. What began as casual meet-ups with friends at the Costco food court has transformed into an intentional effort to create a supportive environment for men of all ages. "The idea just popped in my head of let's just invite everybody, and let's get all the boys together," Smith explained. His vision was to break down the barriers that often prevent men from expressing their emotions, providing an informal setting where they could feel free to talk without fear of judgment. The importance of a space like this cannot be overstated. According to a recent analysis by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 26.1 percent of men reported a lack of social or emotional support, a figure that exceeds the 22.3 percent reported by women. Moreover, as of 2023, men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide, underscoring the urgent need for supportive communities where they can openly discuss their feelings and experiences. Luke Christensen, a member of the Costco group, attests to the positive impact of this gathering. As a student, he frequently grapples with the pressures of academic deadlines and life transitions. "When you're in a group, and you feel included, then it's easy to just feel welcomed and have that sense of belonging," Christensen said. He noted that this sense of belonging can significantly alleviate stress and enhance mental well-being. The informal gatherings at Costco create a low-pressure environment where men can engage in conversations that they might typically avoid. Participants often share personal stories, whether it’s about overcoming adversity or navigating everyday challenges. "Just creating a low-pressure environment where you can open up about feelings, if you want to, but really you're there just to connect," Smith emphasized, highlighting the dual purpose of the meetings. The Men's Mental Health Community Club at Costco is not just a one-off gathering; Smith has ambitious plans to expand the initiative to other locations across Utah. He aims to establish similar groups in various communities, making the message of emotional openness and support more accessible to men statewide. For those interested in joining or learning more about upcoming events, Smith encourages them to check out the group's social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. The discussion around men's mental health is becoming increasingly important, as societal norms often dictate that men should be emotionally stoic. Smith's initiative challenges these norms, promoting the idea that vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but rather a step toward healing and understanding. "People want to help make a change and help men understand that it is OK to show emotion," Smith noted, reinforcing the notion that expressing feelings does not diminish one's masculinity. In a world where mental health conversations are gaining momentum, the Men's Mental Health Community Club stands out as a beacon of hope and support for men. By offering a space to share experiences, discuss challenges, and forge connections, the group is not only addressing a critical issue but also fostering a culture of openness and empathy among its members. As more men step forward to participate, the hope is that such initiatives will inspire similar groups across the nation, ultimately contributing to a broader shift in how society views and discusses mental health. As the Costco gatherings continue to grow in popularity, the Men's Mental Health Community Club serves as a reminder that community support can play a crucial role in mental well-being. The initiative invites all men, regardless of age or background, to take part in this essential conversation about mental health and emotional resilience. By coming together, they are not just addressing their own struggles but also paving the way for a healthier dialogue around men's mental health in Utah and beyond.