When Strength Is Silent — and Sometimes, Even When It Speaks
This Men’s Mental Health Month, I’ve been writing not just to honour my brother, but to speak for those who are often silenced — even when they do speak.
In my last blog, I shared that my brother was a serving soldier who took his own life. But what I didn’t say — and what is so important to acknowledge — is that he did speak up.
He told people he was struggling. He asked for help.
And somehow, he was still ignored.
He Spoke — But Was Anyone Listening?
We often talk about encouraging men to open up. We tell them to talk, to reach out, to not suffer in silence. But what happens when they do… and no one takes them seriously?
My brother was a strong man. A proud soldier. And he was brave enough to name his pain.
But I can’t help wondering: Did the world dismiss him because of his strength? Because of his uniform? Because he was “supposed” to be okay?
Whatever the reason, his words weren’t met with the care he needed.
The Signs Aren’t Always Quiet — Sometimes They’re Clear
It’s easy to imagine that people suffering with mental health issues hide their pain. And yes, that’s often true.
But what about the ones who don’t?
What about the ones who speak clearly, who ask for help, who say, “I’m not okay”?
My brother did all of that. And yet still, the world moved on. People assumed he was coping, strong enough, getting on with it.
They didn’t hear him. Not really.
So Let’s Talk About Listening
This blog isn’t about guilt. It’s about awareness. It’s about doing better — not just asking how someone is, but sitting with them long enough to hear the truth beneath their words.
If someone tells you they’re struggling, believe them. Don’t downplay it. Don’t brush it off because they “seem fine.”
And especially, don’t assume that being a man — or a soldier — means they’re somehow immune to despair.
Because no one is.
Camrhisa Designs: A Place to Breathe and Be Heard
Camrhisa Designs was born out of the ache of losing him — but it’s also grown into a space for remembrance, reflection, and reconnection.
For me, it’s become a way to honour what he stood for: courage, gentleness, depth.
Each item I make is infused with intention. A quiet act of care, a reminder that beauty and grief can sit side by side.
It’s also a reminder to pay attention. To listen. To create room in our lives for the stories behind the smiles.
For My Brother, and for Every Man Who Has Spoken and Been Ignored
If you’ve ever felt dismissed or unseen when you reached out — I see you. I’m sorry. You deserved better.
And if you’re supporting someone who’s struggling, please don’t just ask how they’re doing. Stay long enough to hear the answer.
🕊
With love,
Jamie
Founder of Camrhisa Designs
In memory of my brother — a man who spoke, a man who mattered.