OPINION: Public platforms help men reveal their true emotions

MORE often than not, men feel much more comfortable expressing their emotions nowadays.

The stigma surrounding men's emotions has lessened over the years and this is down, in a large part, to social acceptance which has been promoted through mainstream platforms and social media.

The hottest show this summer is Love Island and while it has taken a rap for the controversial drama it provides, you cannot help but be glad to see coverage of men's vulnerability and emotions on such a big platform.

Tyrique, an original contestant, came into the villa wanting a girlfriend - his first girlfriend to be exact - but did not want to sacrifice any part of himself to do that in the beginning.

Although some may argue that Ella and Ty are not good for each other, they cannot argue she did not bring him out of his shell and allow him space to learn how to be vulnerable with another person.

This is fantastic to see on a huge platform which many men do watch as it allows space for a conversation that even ‘lads, lads’ such as Ty can break that stereotype he has been attributed to.

While there will always be keyboard warriors quick to bring people in all walks of life down, social media platforms have also allowed the space for men to openly express themselves in a positive way.

Within Ireland we have a fantastic pool of men's mental health and wellness advocates including Niall Breslin, Daragh Fleming and Mark Donnelly, owner of HUH Clothing, to name a few.

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These are some of the many men fighting the stigma that has existed especially in Ireland that men need to be men.

More and more, people are realising that no matter who you are, what you identify as, or where you are from, your mental health matters and it is OK not to be OK!

If you or anyone you know is struggling, please reach out for help HERE.