Smoky Lake Men’s Shed gaining momentum

By Brandie Majeau

The Smoky Lake Men’s Shed is part of a global initiative to encourage and

enhance men’s mental health. Like most Men’s Sheds, the program started off small

with just a handful of members but has quietly been gaining engagement, momentum,

awareness, and members.

In the last 40 years, older men in Australia have been meeting in communal work

sheds to socialize, engage in handiwork, and improve their mental well-being. These

“Men’s Sheds” have since expanded to other parts of the world, including Canada,

providing men with a place to connect during retirement. Researchers at the University

of Alberta have found that this concept could offer practical mental health support for

men in rural areas. Members of Men’s Sheds in rural Alberta have reported that the

social interaction and support they receive positively impact their mental health. The

sheds have the potential to be an affordable way to provide mental health assistance in

areas where such services are limited. The voluntary nature of these spaces makes

them particularly appealing to men who may be hesitant to seek formal counseling. The

camaraderie, inclusion, and purpose that the sheds provide have benefited retired men

who may have lost some of their social support after leaving the workforce. The findings

suggest that investing in more Men’s Sheds could be a valuable initiative to address the

needs of self-reliant older men in rural communities.

The group members are lovingly dubbed Shedders and have created a saying

that sums up the unique individuality of each space: “If you’ve seen one Shed … you’ve

only seen one Shed!” The concept of Men’s Sheds is built on a diverse range of

engaging activities that cater to the interests and hobbies chosen by the members

themselves. From woodworking to gaming, cooking to metalworking, each Shed offers a

unique and exciting array of activities.

This unique community provides a platform for men not only to learn and teach

new skills but also to discover fresh opportunities and interests while forming

meaningful connections with others. Within the Men’s Shed, men are offered a safe and

supportive space to work on projects with personal significance. Members have the

freedom to work at their own pace, which, at times, is convenient for them, all while

enjoying the camaraderie of fellow members.

Additionally, Men’s Sheds play a crucial role in combatting feelings of isolation

among men. By fostering an environment where men can engage in purposeful

activities and contribute to society Men’s Sheds offer an invaluable alternative to combat

social isolation. For more information about joining the Smoky Lake Men’s Shed, contact Robert Winning at robert.winning77@gmail.com or 780-379-7999.