Men- unsung heroes! Often expected to take up responsibilities at tender ages. This is a mentality that has been passed from age to age and has finally become a norm in the society.
In our society, there is an unspoken rule book that states how a man is expected to behave and these rules often causes limitations. From tender age, boys are taught to be “tough”, “never cry” and be “the man of the house”. These rules however have shaped men and birthed consequences such as inability to express feelings, not being vulnerable and bottling up emotions.
Today as we celebrate International Men’s Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the experiences of men especially in our societies where they are met with large expectations that could be suffocating and harmful.
Men’s Mental Health
One of the expectations that the society expects of men is to “be strong”, but this however allows for an environment where they are not vulnerable. This is however a cause of one critical issue faced with men today particularly in Nigeria. When faced with mental health crisis, men are less likely to seek for help than women.
Men are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and stress in silence, never reaching out for support or treatment. In Nigeria, where many men already deal with the pressures of unemployment, financial instability, and societal expectations, the added burden of suppressed mental health only worsens the situation. Suicide rates among men are increasing worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. Tragically, many of these deaths could have been prevented if men had been encouraged to seek help or if they had been provided with the mental health resources they need.
But mental health struggles don’t just manifest in the form of depression or suicide, they affect every aspect of a man’s life. Unresolved mental health issues can lead to substance abuse, relationship breakdowns, and an inability to function effectively in the workplace. Yet, because men are taught to “man up” and “keep going,” these issues remain largely unaddressed. It is time we change this narrative and create safe spaces where men can openly talk about their mental health without fear of judgment or ridicule.
Building Safe Spaces for Men
If we want to foster a society where men can thrive emotionally and mentally, we must;
- First create spaces where they feel safe to be themselves. These spaces need to be supportive, non-judgmental, and open to discussion. Whether it’s a circle of friends, a counseling center, or a community group, men should have access to safe places where they can open up about their feelings, struggles, and fears.
- In Nigeria, we need more mental health awareness campaigns specifically targeting men. These campaigns should aim to break down the barriers that prevent men from seeking help, challenge harmful stereotypes, and provide resources for men who need support. It is essential that we encourage men to talk about their experiences without fear of being labeled as “weak” or “unmanly.” Mental health education should be a part of school curriculums, community programs, and public campaigns.
- Moreover, creating a culture of emotional vulnerability requires role models. Fathers, uncles, brothers, and community leaders must lead by example and show younger generations that it is okay to be emotional, to express one’s feelings, and to ask for help when needed. This will help dismantle the harmful notion that men must always be invulnerable and perfect.
As we celebrate International Men’s Day, let us remember that men, just like women, deserve to be celebrated, supported, and understood. We must challenge the stereotypes that restrict their emotional expression, confront the societal pressures that cause harm, and create safe spaces where men can be vulnerable.
On this International Men’s Day, let us take a stand for the men in our lives—whether as fathers, brothers, friends, or colleagues—and commit to building a world where they can live without fear of judgment and where their emotional and mental well-being is a priority. Only then can we truly say that we have achieved a balanced, healthy, and just society for all.
