Creating the Third Space: A Thought Piece on Mental Health and Vulnerability

Date: Monday 09 Jun 2025

"The way that I try and tackle that is to talk about it, I'm trying to normalise feeling like that, not that it is normal, but I'm trying to destigmatise it to make the conversation normal," 

Romesh Ranganathan’s reflections on his mental health journey, shared during his recent appearance on Desert Island Discs, offer a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between openness and sensitivity when discussing mental health. His words resonate deeply with the ethos of the Third Space—a place where men can explore their inner worlds, free from judgment, and at their own pace.

Ranganathan’s statement, “You would talk about physical illness openly, ideally you would talk about [mental health] openly, and you'd express all those things, but you do also have to be mindful of the fact that people may have been affected by that,” captures a tension many men feel. On one hand, there’s a growing desire to normalise conversations about mental health. On the other, there’s the weight of knowing that these conversations can stir pain in others who may be navigating their own struggles.

This is where the Third Space becomes vital. It’s not just a concept, it’s a sanctuary. A place where men can talk about themselves, for themselves. It’s not about performing vulnerability for others or meeting societal expectations of openness. It’s about creating a quiet, safe environment where the noise of the outside world fades, and what’s left is the raw, unfiltered truth of one’s own experience.

The Power of Recognising and Reconnecting

Ranganathan’s journey highlights a truth many men know but often forget: the importance of recognising what works for you and staying connected to it. He spoke of running, reading, and breathing exercises as tools that helped him centre himself during dark periods. Yet, as he humorously admitted, it’s easy to stop doing the very things that bring relief once you start feeling better.

This cycle of finding what works, abandoning it, and then rediscovering it is familiar to many. It’s not a failure; it’s part of the process. The Third Space exists to hold that process, to remind men that it’s okay to return to what grounds them, no matter how many times they’ve stepped away.

Balancing Openness and Sensitivity

Ranganathan’s caution about sharing too much, too openly, is a reminder of the responsibility that comes with vulnerability. While normalising mental health conversations is crucial, it’s equally important to approach these discussions with care. The Third Space honours this balance. It’s a place where men can share as much or as little as they feel ready to, without fear of judgment or the pressure to “get it right.”

Here, there’s no need to perform strength or vulnerability. There’s no audience, no expectations. Just a space to be.

A Call to Action

Ranganathan’s story is a testament to the power of reflection, connection, and resilience. It’s a reminder that mental health is not a destination but a journey, one that requires patience, compassion, and the willingness to return to what works, again and again.

The Third Space invites men to take that journey, not alone, but in a space designed for them. A space where they can explore their struggles, celebrate their victories, and, most importantly, reconnect with themselves.

If you’re reading this and wondering what the Third Space could mean for you, know that it’s here, waiting. There’s no rush, no pressure. Just a quiet invitation to step in when you’re ready.

And if you’re supporting someone else on their journey, remember Ranganathan’s words: “You’ve got to be careful because it’s triggering [for other people].” Sometimes, the best support is simply being there, holding space, and letting them know they’re not alone.

In the end, the rewards of these conversations—whether with yourself or others—far outweigh the risks. Let’s keep creating spaces where they can happen.

Read his full article here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy8np7zzdl3o

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available. Brothers in Arms is here to support you, but if you’re in crisis, please contact your GP or Samaritans at 116123.

Want to know more about The Third Space? Have a chat with BraveheartGPT below