A BRADFORD singer has released a charity song to raise awareness about men's mental health.

Chris Nichols' poignant single, Blessed, was released shortly before Christmas and is available to download on all streaming platforms. 

As well as aiming to start more conversations about mental health among men, all proceeds from Blessed will go towards Andy's Man Club, the suicide prevention charity for males.

West Yorkshire's suicide rate is higher than the national average, with a three-year rate of 12.5 registered suicide deaths per 100,000 people in 2020 to 2022, compared to a rate of 10.3 for England. Men continue to account for around three quarters of suicide deaths.

Chris, 26, of Queensbury, told the Telegraph & Argus: "Blessed started because of one of my friends sadly passed away. 

"I'd noticed there have been a lot of suicides - a lot of my friends and people I know were suffering - so I wrote this song about how important our mental health is. 

"I thought Andy's Man Club was the best charity to donate the money to firstly because I didn't feel comfortable me profiting from a mental health song and secondly because I know the impact Andy's Man Club has had on the local community in helping men regarding their mental health.

"The song was really meant to evoke people's emotions and tell them it's OK to talk, and to check on their friends because I feel it's so important."

Chris thanked everyone for their support with Blessed.

He added: "Please stream, share and use the sound as much as possible and let's raise the roof and make a big impact for mental health."

The song has been receiving many positive comments.

On YouTube, one person said: "This is emotional. I love this song, Chris. Deep and so relevant."

Another person said: "It hits home and hits deep. Your music always picks me up when I'm in a dark place. And it's good to talk guys."

Others described Blessed as "powerful" and "quality" and praised Chris' vocals. 

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year.

You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

And to find out more about Andy's Man Club, visit andysmanclub.co.uk or find the charity on Facebook by searching Andy's Man Club.