June [DATE], 2024 – Walter Chase, a renowned crisis management expert, shares his journey and the profound experiences that led him to work with fathers on improving their mental health. Chase’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of positive role models.
Q: Can you tell us about your journey and what inspired you to start working with men, particularly fathers, on their mental health?
Chase: I grew up never knowing who my father was, and until high school, I lacked a father figure in my life. This absence made me very angry, and I isolated myself from others. At 15, I decided to live on my own, which led to some bad decisions. However, certain adults entered my life and held me accountable, steering me toward a better path.
Two key figures were a judge who advised me to practice “second thought first” during a court hearing, and Irving Hamilton, the principal of a middle school I helped break into. Instead of having me arrested, Hamilton took me under his wing, teaching me discipline and respect. These experiences introduced me to mentorship and the power of positive role models, inspiring me to help others.
Q: What are some common challenges fathers face regarding mental health, and how does your work aim to address these issues?
Chase: One major challenge is the generational gap. Today’s fathers are more aware of mental health issues and the support available, unlike in the past when misconceptions prevailed. I aim to shift fathers’ thinking by providing simple educational solutions to address mental illness, helping them develop action plans for their families, starting with themselves.
Q: How do you believe a father’s mental health impacts his children and overall family dynamics?
Chase: Fathers are role models for their children. Kids emulate what they see and hear from us. As parents, we are constantly on stage for our children. Establishing family goals and values, and having a mentor respected as a family man, are crucial for positive family dynamics.
Q: Can you share a success story from your work where a father improved his mental health and saw positive changes in his relationship with his children?\
Chase: As a Pop Warner football coach, I encountered a father who was very loud and aggressive. After sharing my story and parenting philosophy over pizza, he agreed to become our team’s sideline encouragement coach. Initially met with skepticism, this role transformed him. He learned that encouragement didn’t require yelling, and his son began enjoying football more, reducing household tension. This change illustrated how sports can positively impact life off the field.
Q: How important do you think it is for society to recognize and support fathers who are actively working to better themselves for their children?
Chase: It’s crucial. Social media and public figures sharing their stories have greatly contributed to this cause. Fathers need to create action plans from acquired knowledge and be willing to ask questions, rather than figuring everything out alone. Pride and ego can often be the biggest obstacles.
Q: What role do community and peer support play in the mental health journey of fathers, and how do you facilitate this in your work?
Chase: Community resources are abundant, but fathers need to be willing to utilize them. Sharing my story helps address misconceptions and inspire fathers to take the next step. Knowing you’re not alone in facing these challenges is immensely comforting.
Q: Are there any misconceptions about fathers and mental health that you encounter frequently, and how do you address them?
Chase: Common misconceptions include believing mood swings are under control or that children’s behavior is just normal. I acknowledge the truth in these beliefs but highlight potential hidden factors. Sharing my experiences often helps fathers see the value of consulting mental health professionals.
Q: What advice would you give to a father struggling with his mental health but feels hesitant or unsure about seeking help?
Chase: I would commend him for recognizing his emotional struggles and share my story to create a comfortable environment. Suggesting he write down questions and examples of his feelings can help. I also advise asking mental health professionals if they have their own support, emphasizing the importance of professional help.
Q: How do you integrate cultural or societal factors into your work, especially considering the diverse backgrounds of the men you work with?
Chase: It starts with giving grace to each individual’s unique situation. Building relationships is key—people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.
Q: What impact do you hope your work will have on the next generation, particularly in terms of how they view and approach mental health?
Chase: I aim to uplift younger generations, emphasizing the value of educating others about mental illness. Utilizing social media to coordinate group discussions in safe environments can help address misconceptions and stereotypes. My goal is to help people live with mental illness, not just survive it.
Walter Chase’s dedication to supporting fathers’ mental health is paving the way for more open conversations and stronger family dynamics. His work continues to inspire and transform lives, one father at a time.
