20-mile hike to raise awareness for men’s mental health

Press release from Beam Counseling and Coaching:

The BRO 2-0

What: A 20-mile hike to raise awareness for men’s mental health Where: Shining Rock Wilderness
When: Nov 7 – Nov 8
Who: Dr. Brent Beam of Beam Counseling and Coaching
Ticket Info: Go to http://beamcounseling.com/bro2-0/ for sign up information. All funds raised will go to the Movember Foundation, a global charity dedicated to changing the face of men’s health.

On November 7th & 8th, a group of “manly men” dedicated to the cause of raising awareness about men’s mental health will take on a physical challenge as difficult as the act of asking for help.

Sponsored by local psychologist and outdoor enthusiast Brent Beam, the Bro 2-0 is an invitation to the men of Western North Carolina to challenge the “tough” guy norm and show what real courage and strength is all about. Created in response to the need for more awareness around men’s mental health issues, the inaugural 20 mile hike will span over two days.

The event will be raising awareness and starting needed discussions pertaining to the often overlooked, yet critical mental health needs of men. Notably, the event will also be donating all funds to The Movember Foundation, a global charity committed to men’s mental and physical health, that has raised over $650 million since its inception in 2003. Their annual event, “Movember,” encourages guys to grow a striking mustache to bring awareness to men’s health issues. Should participants of BRO 2-0 want to grow an impressive ‘stache and put in some impressive mileage, go ahead! The manlier the better, but facial hair is not required.

Surprisingly, men are three times more likely than women to commit suicide and four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with alcohol abuse or dependence. One of the reasons men’s mental health is such a concern is our cultural emphasis on men being tough, but toughness takes on different forms. Tough can actually mean having the courage to be open, the strength to be vulnerable, and the fortitude to seek help. With this in mind, Dr. Brent Bream was inspired to use his expertise in counseling psychology to specifically connect with men. He’s specialized in helping men navigate challenges in their lives in a way that is collaborative, personal, and experiential. He is an apt and fitting host for BRO 2-0, not only because of his professional experience, but also because of his passion for scaling mountain summits and rambling through woodlands.

Not only is this an atypical fundraising event, Dr. Beam is an atypical member of his profession who is committed to taking therapy out of the norm and “off the couch.” Brent offers his clients sessions in the great outdoors as an option. For men, this can be especially beneficial since the culture of “couch therapy” often doesn’t match up with the culture of traditional masculinity. Outdoor sessions make counseling more experiential and provide new ways to be centered, meeting men where they are and helping them move forward on their path.

Shining Rock Wilderness is the perfect setting for the inaugural event, as it’s the largest wilderness in North Carolina, with its far-reaching trails and breathtaking natural beauty. A step on the trail signifies a courageous step forward in addressing the mental health needs of men. All men are encouraged to join Dr. Beam on what is sure to be a valiant excursion into the forest.

To sign up for the hike or donate to the fundraiser, visit Dr. Brent Beam, 828-458-0700, brent@beamcounseling.com or https://www.gofundme.com/ bro20