Mental Health Awareness for Men: 3 Practical Tips for Starting Conversations

“I’ve been feeling overwhelmed at work lately, and it’s affecting my mood at home.” Odamea looked sarcastically at her brother, Afari, and said, “Well, even Superman needs a break from saving the world. Why don’t you talk to someone about it? I’m someone, you know,” she smiled, playing with her brother’s beard. “Let’s make sure you’re okay, for both of us.”

June is a month dedicated to men’s mental health, culminating in the celebration of Father’s Day. It’s a time when we honor the men in our lives: fathers, brothers, uncles, sons, and friends who often bear the weight of responsibility, sometimes at the expense of their happiness and comfort. While providing for and protecting their families, many men neglect their mental health, which is essential for a fulfilled and balanced life.

The Silent Struggle

In many cultures, ours inclusive, the Ghanaian man is conditioned to be the stoic provider and the unbending pillar of strength. This societal expectation has led to men suppressing their emotions and struggles, resulting in “silent” stress, anxiety, and depression. The phrase “real men talk about their feelings” needs to be more than a slogan; it should be a call to action. Men should not just talk about amorous feelings but also voice the inevitable conflicts in their minds. Sometimes, even these affections are accompanied by self-doubt and low self-esteem.

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Ignoring mental health issues can have severe consequences. It’s not just about feeling sad or stressed; untreated mental health problems can lead to physical health issues, unhealthy relationships, and a reduced quality of life.

Addressing mental health is not a sign of weakness but a testament to one’s strength and commitment to overall well-being. Mental health is our ability to respond to life’s challenges soundly and with optimism. It is a priority, informing our happiness and tolerance levels, and rooted in self-care.

Recognizing that “it’s okay not to be okay” all the time is a crucial step towards better mental health. Some men might abuse drugs or people alike, while others would rather not be home at all than be there and feel unable to help.

Practical Ways to Start the Conversation

Just as Odamea told Afari, there are meaningful ways to start conversations about mental health. Here are three starting points:

1. Find a Trusted Person to Talk To:
   • Whether it’s a friend, spouse, family member, or professional therapist, having someone to confide in is crucial. Like Afari, start by expressing that you need to talk about something important and make sure the environment is comfortable and private. It’s important to choose someone who listens without judgment and offers support rather than solutions. It may not be the same person all the time, but it must be a trusted fellow.
2. Use Real-Life Scenarios to Explain Feelings:
   • Sometimes, it’s easier to talk about feelings in the context of everyday situations. For instance, you might say, “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed at work lately, and it’s affecting my mood at home.” By relating emotions to tangible events, it can help normalize the conversation and make it less daunting.
3. Join a Support Group:
   • There are numerous support groups and online communities where we can share our experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Being part of a group can provide a sense of belonging and reduce the feeling of isolation. Groups like Facebook fan pages, institutional alumni, and WhatsApp networks offer a safe space to discuss issues openly and gain insights into managing mental health. Take a sneak peek into your favorite personality’s comment section on social media and see something for yourself.

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Why am I seeing this?

Taking care of mental health is not a luxury but a necessity. Men need to feel empowered to seek help, talk about their feelings, and prioritize their well-being. We are the ones to talk about it. We are the ones to take care of them as they take care of us. Let’s constantly remind our men that we see them, and our bosom is always available to welcome them to have that conversation.

As we annually celebrate Men’s Mental Health Month and Father’s Day in June, let’s encourage the men in our lives to embrace their emotional (mental) health.

Remember, it’s okay not to be okay, and seeking help is a courageous step towards a happier, healthier life.

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I see you, Man!