Dubbo resident Bob Boys says the Men's Shed Association presented him with a second chance at life.
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Members of the Dubbo Men's Shed are using Men's Health Week, commencing June 10, to speak out about what they say is the leading contributor of poor health in retired males, depression.
Association Secretary John Gibson says statistics show males between the age of 30 to 40 are at the highest risk of depression, but once you reach retirement, that increases again.
"When you reach retirement age you're lost, you've worked all your life, and now you've got nothing to do," Mr Gibson said.
"You become bored, and that's when the depression starts to set in, you think, I've worked all my life and now I have bugger all."
Association Vice President Steve White says it is important for men to decide what they want to do after retirement before they reach that point.
"They need to have a plan, figure out what they want to do after retirement."
Mr Gibson says the Men's Shed give each other the support and direction the retirees need.
"You need something to do, something to keep your mind busy," he said.
Association committee member Bob Boys says finding out about the Men's Shed is the best thing that's ever happened to him.
After requiring a defibrillator in 2013, Mr Boys was warned by doctors not to do most of the things he had been doing his whole life.
"After I left the hospital I carried on, doing nothing for about 12 months, and I struggled," Mr Boys said.
"I was very close to suicide.
"But before I did someone said to me, well, why don't you go to the Men's Shed?
"It's the only contributor to me being alive today."
Mr Gibson says the first step is the hardest step, but it will be the best decision you've ever made.
"It's just getting through the door," he said.
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
The Men's shed can be contacted on 6881 6987.