HARTFORD, Conn. — As the nation observes Mental Illness Awareness Week, community leaders in Hartford are working to challenge long-held stigmas that prevent many men from speaking up about their struggles.

Community leaders say that, for generations, men have been told that expressing emotion is a sign of weakness. However, local advocates are now uniting to change that narrative, creating spaces where men can talk openly, connect, and begin to heal together.

This week, the Toivo Center in Hartford will host a Men in Mental Health Discussion Panel, bringing together community members to share personal stories and support one another on their mental health journeys.

Education Coordinator at Advocacy Unlimited and one of the organizers of the Men in Mental Health discussion panel, Cha

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