top of page
Courageous Conversations


How Men Can Keep Their Relationships with Their Children as Teenagers and Young Adults
Building and maintaining a strong relationship with your children as they grow into teenagers and young adults can feel like walking a tightrope. The changes they go through, the new challenges they face, and the natural push for independence can create distance. But staying connected is possible, and it’s worth the effort. I want to share some practical ways men can keep those bonds strong, even when it feels like your child is slipping away.
Alan Stokes
Jun 154 min read


Managing ADHD as a Man After a Diagnosis Later in Life
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult can feel like a mix of relief and confusion. You finally have a name for the struggles you’ve faced, but now you’re wondering how to manage it. For men over 30, especially those living in Plymouth, this journey can be challenging but also full of hope. I want to share some practical ways to handle ADHD after a late diagnosis and highlight a local service that can really make a difference.
Alan Stokes
Jun 144 min read


“I Should Be Happy… So Why Don’t I Feel It?”
On paper, everything looks alright.
You’ve got a job.
You’re handling your responsibilities.
You’re doing what you’re supposed to be doing.
From the outside, there’s no obvious problem.
But internally, something doesn’t quite line up.
There’s a flatness to things.
A lack of real enjoyment.
A sense that you’re going through life… rather than actually in it.
And the confusing part is this:
You can’t always point to a clear reason why.
Alan Stokes
May 273 min read


Breaking the Silence: Why Men in Plymouth Need to Talk
Ever noticed how men often dodge serious conversations about what’s really on their minds? Instead of opening up, many crack jokes or change the subject. It’s like there’s an unspoken rule: don’t show worry, just laugh it off. But why is that? Why do so many men find it easier to use humour as a shield rather than talk honestly about their worries?
Alan Stokes
May 214 min read


The Pressure of Being the Strong One
I think a lot of men quietly break under pressure long before anybody notices.
Not because they are weak.
But because they become too good at hiding it.
Over the last few years, I found myself carrying pressures from every direction at once.
Alan Stokes
May 214 min read


How Do You Deal With Being Kept Away From Your Children When a Relationship Breaks Down?
UK guide for men when contact stops: how to stabilise, communicate, use mediation, and record efforts—while safeguarding your child’s wellbeing.
Alan Stokes
Dec 16, 20255 min read


When Silence Speaks: What We Avoid Tells a Story
Silence tells a story. Spot the fears behind avoidance and use practical scripts to have calmer, more honest conversations.
Alan Stokes
Dec 9, 20254 min read


When Men Lose Their Role or Identity: Finding Your Way Back
Struggling with divorce, redundancy or retirement? Learn how to handle role loss, manage emotions and rebuild a stronger sense of self.
Alan Stokes
Dec 2, 20254 min read


The Hidden Cost of Always Saying “I’m Fine”
Discover why men default to “I’m fine,” the hidden costs of silence, and how MoMENtum events in Plymouth help men connect, belong, and thrive.
Alan Stokes
Nov 11, 20255 min read


Are You Lonely? The Feeling We Don’t Talk About
“Loneliness is the signal men rarely speak about. Discover why silence around loneliness harms wellbeing—and how honest connection can change everything.”
Alan Stokes
Oct 31, 20254 min read


The Mask of Perfection: Breaking Free from the Burden
“Why chasing ‘flawless’ keeps men stuck. Discover how putting down the perfect shield eases pressure, reduces isolation, and builds real strength through connection.”
Alan Stokes
Oct 24, 20254 min read


Embracing Vulnerability: A Path to Connection and Growth
Discover why vulnerability isn’t weakness, how avoidance harms relationships, and practical steps to build courage, honesty, and connection.
Alan Stokes
Oct 17, 20254 min read


Riding the Rollercoaster of Starting Something New: My Journey with MoMENtum Men’s Group
“Starting MoMENtum Men’s Group has been a rollercoaster of excitement, fear, and hope. Discover the highs, lows, and lessons of building something that matters.”
Alan Stokes
Sep 20, 20254 min read
bottom of page
