On a Saturday afternoon in September, NAHSE DFW partnered with a neighborhood barbershop in South Dallas to host an open conversation on men's health. Panelists, barbers and community members sat side by side for two hours of candid talk.
The goal was simple: meet men where they already gather, and make it easier to talk about the health topics that often go unspoken.
Topics ranged from blood pressure and diabetes to mental health and preventive screenings.
Why the barbershop
Barbershops have long been trusted spaces in Black communities. Many attendees said they would be more likely to take a health conversation seriously coming from someone they already know and trust.
“The most important thing you can do today is book the appointment you have been putting off.”
Panelist, Family medicine physician
What we heard
- Cost. Time off work and copays keep many men from regular checkups.
- Timing. Many only see a doctor after something is already wrong.
- Stigma. Mental health is still hard to bring up, even with close friends.
- Attendees wanted clear, local resources they could share with family.
Watch the conversation
For members who couldn't attend, highlights from the afternoon are available below.
Resources we shared
Every attendee left with a resource card:
- Free blood pressure checks at participating Dallas pharmacies
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988
- Community clinics with sliding-scale fees in Dallas and Tarrant County
What's next
Thank you to our host barbershop, panelists and every volunteer who helped make the day possible.
The Community Outreach committee plans to bring Barbershop Talk to more neighborhoods across Dallas and Tarrant County in 2027.
