June’s Letter From Denise

June 2025

Well, hello there! It’s June, can you believe it? Time is flying by, and we are halfway through 2025.

There is so much going on this month. We have Pride and Juneteenth, Father’s Day, and the Summer Solstice. Outdoor activities are abundant, and let’s not forget about our Pacers (YES-CER’S), the Fever and our Indians, who have all had impressive seasons.

June is also Men’s Mental Health Month, a time when we intentionally focus on raising awareness, promoting positive conversations about men's mental health and addressing the stigma associated with it. This month, I have had to serve as caregiver and therapist for the two most important men in my life—my father and my life partner. This was no easy feat. Both of these men are strong, stubborn and fiercely independent. I had to dress, feed, change bandages, and disperse medications. I heard “no, I’m not doing that, leave me alone”, “you can’t tell me what to do, I’m fine”, “I got it, I don’t need any help”, and many other comments, that men make when they’re trying to be strong but know they need help.

I ignored them and did what I had to do because that’s what we do as women.

So, to all you men, please stop trying to be that pillar of strength. When you are around those who genuinely love you, I encourage you to be vulnerable and let them help. We know you are as strong as an oak tree and as fierce as the wildest animal in the jungle. We know who you are, what you’re capable of and the lengths you will go to protect us. This moment, when your mental or physical health is off kilter, is just a moment in time, and we won’t hold it against you. Let us help you. Talk to a friend or therapist, and use the resources out there. Moreover, take care of your mental health. Please.

Signing off,

Denise

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