PAMELA MACHIDHA
Men’s mental health is a serious issue that is often overlooked but it can have devastating consequences. Each year men’s mental health issues led to thousands of suicides. This is a tragedy that must be addressed by breaking down the stigma around men’s mental health.
Mental health issues refer to any condition that affects a person’s emotional, psychological, or social well-being.
In an interview with Executive director of Men’s Email Safe Haven (MESH), Berita Saranji stated that men’s mental health is a major issue, as men are disproportionately represented in suicide statistics.
“Men are three times more likely to die from suicide than women, a number of factors contribute to this are as follows:
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Emotional abuse can be defined as a pattern of behavior that is designed to control and manipulate another person. For instance a partner can be criticized or belittled in front of others by his wife or girlfriend. Degrading or devaluing a man’s ego after emotional abuse can actually exacerbate the problem such anxiety, depression, even suicide.
Physical abuse is defined as any type of physical force that is used to control or harm another person which include hitting, kicking, slapping, choking, pushing. Some women are perpetrators of violence, including burning their partners with boiling oil, cutting their genital parts, and throwing boiling water in their faces.
Financial abuse is whereby a woman financially abuses her husband by controlling his money. This can lead to feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness which can have serious consequences for men’s mental health, including feelings of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
“Conflicts in a family can have a significant impact on a father’s mental health. When a mother and her children are in conflict with the father, it can have a negative impact on the father’s mental health, the father may feel isolated, unsupported, and even depressed, said Saranji”.
She emphasized that men need to be reminded that they are human beings with complex emotions just like everyone else.
“Men’s voices deserve to be heard and respected, just like anyone else’s. Men are human beings, their thoughts and feelings are just as valid as anyone else’s.lf emotions left untreated men, u will end up in prison or grave”.
Saranji implores society and women to end its cutthroat mentality towards men’s mental health.
“Society at large and women in particular should recognize and understand the harmful effects of emotional suppression on men’s mental health. There is a common saying that ‘real men don’t cry,’ (lndoda ayikhali in zulu language) but this idea is harmful and outdated.It is important to create a culture where men can feel comfortable expressing their emotions, without judgment or shame.”
“Women stop be war dogs by always blaming men. It is not fair to paint all men as oppressors or perpetrators, some men are actually victims of violence, emotional abuse, and other forms of harm. Let us acknowledge that men can be victims too, she said”.
The organisation is sounding an alarm on men’s mental health issues by offering a listening ear to those who are struggling.
“Men, we want you to know that you are not alone. Please reach out for help, there is no shame in admitting you need support. We are committed to creating a space where you can feel comfortable expressing your emotions and working through any difficulties you may be facing. You do not have to suffer in silence.”
“If you are struggling with mental health issues, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help. We provide both counseling and clinical services to support you on your journey towards mental wellness, Saranji said”.
Director of the Marriage Pot,Whisper Makwanda has highlighted the role that relationship and marital problems play in the current mental health crisis.
“A troubled marriage can have far-reaching consequences, even affecting something as seemingly unrelated as a person’s driving. men who are experiencing marital conflict are more likely to engage in reckless driving, such as speeding as a way to release their anger and frustration.”
” When men are experiencing difficulties in their relationships or marriages, they may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to escape their negative feelings.”
“The movement towards gender equality and women’s empowerment has been an important step forward, but it has also had some unintended consequences for men’s mental health. In the past, men were often expected to be the sole providers and decision-makers in their families, but as women have gained more power and independence, some men have felt a sense of loss and uncertainty about their role in society. (Tave nevarume vave kunzwa senge vave vakadzi), said Makwanda”.
Makwanda emphasizes that churches, social media platforms, and counseling services all have the potential to be game-changers for men’s mental health and wellbeing.
“In order to address men’s mental health issues, churches should consider creating safe spaces such as couples’ retreats and fellowship for men to open up about their struggles. These programs could help men feel less isolated”.
“Seeking help from a counselor or therapist is not a sign of weakness or failure failure – it is a sign of strength and self-awareness ( varume kutaura nyaya dziri kukushungurudza hausi utera murume chaiye hazviuraye nedambudziko iko kuine vanhu vanomira newe siyai tsika yekunzi kufa kwemurume hubuda ura).”
“Online forums and messaging apps can be a valuable tool for men who are struggling with mental health issues. These platforms offer a safe and anonymous space to discuss personal struggles without the pressure of face-to-face communication, he said.”
Dr Lewis Usayi emphasizes that there are a number of warning signs that may indicate a man is struggling with his mental health.
“It is vital to take these warning signs seriously and seek help if they are present. They include feeling hopeless, withdrawing from friends and family, having difficulty concentrating and suicidal thoughts.”
