Norlane’s Tom Noulas starts men’s mental health support group

After a distressing incident at work, Norlane’s Tom Noulas fell into depression and struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder. He is now on a mission to support others battling with their mental health.

After battling depression and PTSD, Norlane's Tom Noulas is on a mission to break the stigma around men's mental health. Picture: Alison Wynd

                

After a distressing incident at work, Norlane’s Tom Noulas fell into depression and struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The 56-year-old, affectionately known as Huggy Bear, is now on a mission to help break the stigma around mental health and give people a safe space to process their emotions.

In 2020, Mr Noulas was working in the youth justice system when he injured his knee at a basketball event he had organised for young people.

After multiple surgeries, including a full knee replacement, he headed back to work.

But he said he was traumatised by bullying and forced to leave his job due to “ill health”.

Mr Noulas said the events at his work led to a battle with depression and PTSD.

“I lost myself,” he said.

“It went from a physical injury to a mental health injury.

“It stopped me from doing a lot of things including trying to find work.”

Mr Noulas said he was able to better his mental health with the help of counsellors and psychologists and support from his mates.

“I’ve come a long way,” he said.

Mr Noulas has been an avid motorbike rider since he was young, which also helped him during his mental health battle.

“It’s been an escape to me,” he said.

“Riding with friends and bonding with them … it’s a brotherhood.

“There is a big stigma (around mental health) but these big tough men riding aren’t really that tough after all.

“We do cry and feel our emotions and it’s great to see that.”

After battling depression and PTSD, Norlane's Tom Noulas is on a mission to break the stigma around men's mental health. Picture: Alison Wynd

Mr Noulas said it was okay for people to not be okay.

“You’re not alone,” he said.

“To me, to be a man is to show your feelings.”

Mr Noulas recently launched a social media page to help people connect with each other who need some support.

“People can talk and reach out, it’s a safe space where they can have a voice without fear of being judged,” he said.

“Everyone is swapping numbers and checking in to make sure others are doing okay.

“It gives our brothers and sisters a safe space to vent.”

He is hosting meet-ups and gym sessions and hopes to start a men’s shed where people can work on their bikes and talk through their emotions.

Locals can join Mr Noulas’ group, titled ‘Huggy Bear’s Supporting Men’s Mental Health’, on Facebook.

The content summaries were created with the assistance of AI technology, then edited and approved for publication by an editor.

Originally published as Norlane’s Tom Noulas starts men’s mental health support group