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Warren Phillip, the General Manager of Essentially Men, experienced a personal journey of transformation, that coupled with the importance of mental health support for men has seen his work impact countless others. Speaking about his experience, Warren revealed how attending a retreat with his son over a decade ago became a turning point in his life, helping him confront his emotions and improve his relationships.

Warren described his life before the retreat as one focused on career success, where he worked long hours as a Chief Financial Officer, often at the expense of his family relationships. 

Feeling disconnected from his wife and children, he realised he needed to make a change. ​ His first step was attending a week-long retreat organised by Essentially Men, a program designed to help men connect with their emotions and build meaningful relationships. Initially skeptical, Warren found the experience transformative, as it introduced him to the concept of sharing his feelings in a safe and supportive environment.

The retreat led Warren to participate in additional workshops and eventually join the organisation’s service team, where he supported other men on their journeys. ​Over time, he became deeply involved in the community, which fosters trust, active listening, and vulnerability among its members. ​This involvement helped him integrate the lessons learned into his daily life, leading to stronger relationships with his family and a deeper sense of self-awareness. ​

Warren’s story highlights the growing need for mental health support among men, particularly younger generations. ​He noted a shift in the age of participants attending Essentially Men workshops, with more men in their mid-30s seeking help compared to the mid-40s demographic seen in previous years. ​This change reflects a broader societal trend of increased awareness and reduced stigma surrounding mental health issues. ​

Essentially Men’s flagship program, “Men Being Real,” offers a weekend retreat followed by seven weeks of integration sessions. These sessions help participants apply the tools they’ve learned to their everyday lives. ​ Many men go on to form independent support groups, fostering long-term connections and providing a safe space to share their experiences. ​

Warren’s journey from a high-powered corporate career to leading Essentially Men underscores the importance of prioritising mental health and relationships. His story serves as a powerful reminder that seeking help and embracing vulnerability can lead to profound personal growth and stronger connections with loved ones. ​