MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

Each year, the month of June is recognized as Men’s Mental Health Month, a vital time to spotlight the mental health challenges many men face and to encourage open, honest conversations about emotional well-being. While society has made significant strides in discussing mental health, men’s issues often remain in the shadows- masked in stigma, silence  and outdated perceptions of masculinity.

Statistics paint a sobering picture that Men are less likely to seek help for mental health struggles compared to women. More likely to die by suicide; particularly middle-aged and older men. In an interview on Citizen TV, Anthony Muoki, who is a psychologist stated that “True, a number of men is seeking for help but not as comparatively to women. A number of factors actually make it difficult for men to seek help. And one of the factors is our society as you know our socialization as men. It is expected as a man because of masculinity aspect of how Africans especially has perceived men seeking or asking for help is a sign of weakling…”

Traditional ideas about masculinity have long linked strength with stoicism. Phrases like “man up” or “boys don’t cry” have discouraged generations of men from showing vulnerability. As a result, men suffer in silence, unaware that support systems exist or feeling ashamed for needing help.

While everyone’s experiences is unique, some mental health conditions disproportionately affect or manifest differently in men: Depression may appear in anger, irritability, or risk- taking rather than sadness, Anxiety often masked with overwork or substance use, Post – Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Substance Use disorders which frequently co-occur with untreated mental health issues and finally Suicidal Ideation which is often overlooked until it’s too late.

The aim of men’s mental health awareness month is not just awareness, it’s action. It’s about creating safe spaces for men to talk, connecting them to resources, and breaking the cycle of silence.  We can support by Normalizing conversations around therapy, stress, and mental health among men in our lives; whether on social media or in private conversations, making people aware of mental health hotlines, support groups, and counseling services.  Also we should challenge the stereotypes and call out language or behaviors that promote emotional suppression and finally encourage professional help such as therapy and support groups without judgment.

In conclusion, mental health affects us all, and everyone deserves the right to live without the burden of silence or stigma. By fostering understanding, offering support and encouraging vulnerability, we can build a culture where men feel empowered to take care of their minds, just as they would their bodies.

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BY;MACHOGU OBADIAH

John

The author is an experienced radio journalist and media manager.