Some time ago my friend Clinton Hoffman had a close friend of his take his own life as a consequence of severe depression. Clinton was so confronted by the knowledge that his friend had reached this final desperation without being able to communicate his need to share his consuming dilemma, that he decided to try to do something that might help other men in similar circumstances.

In consultation with his “life therapist” Barry Hogg, he has put together an app, “The IF app”. It is based on the poem “IF” written by Rudyard Kipling. It’s a father’s advice to his son.

Written more than one hundred years ago, it feels more relevant now than ever. Each verse referring to a different aspect of what it means to be a “man”.

After having the poem presented as a simple animation, Clinton asked me if I would record the poem for use in the app. I was of course, only too happy to be involved, knowing that it is difficult for a lot of men to come to grips with their need to share their problems with others.

We have recorded the poem and the app. is now available on Kindle Amazon. However, Clinton has also distributed over 45,000 free copies of the app. to people who have requested it.

Being a part of this project that helps to demystify and de-stigmatize men’s mental health issues while giving them the tools needed to navigate life’s ups and downs has given me considerable satisfaction knowing that in some way, we have helped our fellow men in their hour of need.  

— Jack Thompson