Men’s mental health remains a silent struggle for many, with societal expectations often discouraging open conversations.
For countless men, the idea of walking into a doctor’s office and admitting they need help feels overwhelming.
But Torque It Out, a unique initiative operating out of the Wheelnutz Garage mechanics workshop, is breaking down these barriers, one conversation at a time.
Since launching in July last year, Torque It Out has been providing free, no-appointment-needed mental health support to men in a setting where they feel comfortable, a garage.
Jade Burgmann, who established Wheelnutz Garage alongside partner Gavin McCarthy, said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The first six months really opened our eyes to how many men just needed a place to start,” she said.
“Knowing they could walk in without the pressure of making an appointment helped open up conversations about their mental health.”
While the initiative has provided an essential first step for many, Miss Burgmann acknowledged that it has also highlighted gaps in mental health access.
As a result, the program has expanded to include roadside mental health support, bringing assistance directly to those who might not otherwise seek it.
A critical part of Torque It Out’s success is the relaxed and familiar environment.
Unlike a doctor’s office, the garage setting allows them to ease into conversations naturally.
“There are so many barriers to talking about mental health, having to make a phone call, sitting in a waiting room, then figuring out how to start that conversation,” Miss Burgmann said.
“Here, it’s different. You just turn up, and before you know it, you’re chatting while working on an engine or handing over a spanner.”
For many men, this setting mirrors their own backyards, standing in the shed with mates, fixing things, and having a casual chat.
That familiarity removes the formality and pressure that often comes with traditional mental health support services.
Beyond supporting those in distress, Torque It Out is also equipping men with the tools to help their mates.
“We’re working with guys who have a mate, a colleague, or even an employee they’re worried about but don’t know how to start the conversation,” Miss Burgmann said.
“Men do seek help, it just looks different.”
One of the biggest takeaways from the past year is how many men lack basic knowledge about mental health services.
Many have approached Torque It Out simply to ask, “What is a mental health care plan?”
“There’s an embarrassment that comes with not knowing something,” Miss Burgmann said.
“Men want to have all the answers before they walk into a doctor’s office, and that fear of the unknown can stop them from seeking help. We provide a space where they can ask those ‘stupid’ questions without judgment.”
The misconception that talking about suicide or mental health struggles will plant negative thoughts in someone’s mind is one that Torque It Out is working to dispel.
“You can’t make someone feel suicidal just by bringing it up,” she said.
“What you can do is let them know they’re not alone.”
Torque It Out runs Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 4.00pm at Wheelnutz Garage, Unit 7, 33-43 Meakin Rd, Meadowbrook.
