Mental Health And Men

The recent issue concerning a KNUST student attempting suicide has raised general concerns on the Mental Health of men and its impact on their general wellbeing. Men's mental health issues are a significant concern not only in Ghana but worldwide, which has not been given the needed attention it deserves. Societal expectations and gender norms often place pressure on men to appear strong, stoic, self-reliant, heroic and often seem out of place when they seek HELP which can lead to reluctance in seeking assistance or expressing vulnerability. This stigma surrounding men's mental health can have detrimental effects on their well-being just as it happened with this young student of KNUST.

In Ghana, traditional gender roles and cultural beliefs often reinforce the idea that men should be the primary providers and decision-makers within their families. This can create immense pressure on men to fulfill these roles, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, the reluctance to discuss mental health openly in Ghanaian society further worsens the issue, making it challenging for men to seek support and treatment.

Furthermore, therapy is often associated with people who are well to do or 'spoilt' and to escalate things, Ghanaians do not regard therapy as a necessary go-t0-place when one is battling mental health issues owed to the labels surrounding the subject.

Globally, men face various mental health challenges. Depression and anxiety are common, but they may manifest differently in men compared to women. Widely observed, men may be more prone to anger, irritability, substance abuse, or risky behaviours as coping mechanisms. Additionally, men have higher rates of completed suicides compared to women, indicating a critical need for addressing mental health issues in this population.

How Do I Think This Can Be Addressed?

To address men's mental health concerns, it is crucial to challenge the societal stereotypes and expectations that prevent men from seeking help. Promoting open discussions about mental health, both in Ghana and globally, can help normalize seeking assistance and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Education and awareness campaigns should emphasize that seeking support is a sign of strength rather than weakness.Since I have expertise teaching teenagers, it is crucial to start educating the younger generations in basic schools. It is clear that the majority of these young men develop these prejudices as they grow up, which prevent them from seeking care.

Healthcare systems need to provide accessible and gender-sensitive mental health services. This can include creating safe spaces for men to share their experiences, offering counseling or therapy services that address their unique challenges, and involving men as active participants in mental health promotion and advocacy efforts.

Individuals can also contribute to improving men's mental health by supporting their friends, family members, or colleagues. Fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and non-judgment can encourage men to express their feelings and seek help when needed. It is essential to recognise that mental health is a universal concern and that everyone deserves support and compassion, regardless of gender.

Men's mental health issues are a pressing matter both in Ghana and worldwide and believe that by challenging societal expectations, promoting open discussions, improving mental health services, and fostering supportive environments, we can make significant progress in addressing these issues and ensuring that men receive the care they deserve.