CREATING A SUPPORTIVE SOCIETY FOR MEN IS THE FOCUS OF TODAY’S VIEWPOINT. IT IS WRITTEN BY EMMANUEL DADA, A YOUTH CORPS MEMBER IN THE NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT.
Every nineteenth of November is set aside to celebrate men globally.
A day dedicated to appreciate the positive contributions of men to the society, their families, and their communities, while also addressing the pressing issues that affect their well-being.
From a young age, men are often raised and conditioned to suppress vulnerability, internalize stress, and shoulder huge responsibilities.
In many countries including Nigeria, the cultural expectation for men to be breadwinners, protectors, and problem-solvers can create a profound mental and emotional burden.
However, these struggles are rarely spoken about, let alone addressed.
With economic pressures playing a significant role, men feel societal expectations to be the primary breadwinners.
Financial instability can lead to feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness, contributing significantly to mental health crises.
Also, there exists a pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues among men.
Many men are reluctant to seek help due to fears of being perceived as weak or vulnerable.
According to the world health organization, who, approximately 700,000 people commit suicide each year, with men excessively affected.
In Africa, the suicide rate for men is notably higher than the global average, underscoring the need for urgent attention and intervention.
Encouraging and supporting men is not just a matter of courtesy but of a necessity.
To this end, the society needs to come up with programmes where men would be empowered to seek help, express vulnerability, and receive recognition for their contributions which foster healthier families and communities.
It is also imperative to dismantle the stigma around men expressing emotions or seeking help and encourage them to open up about their challenges and provide safe spaces for dialogue that can significantly improve their mental health and relationships.
In conclusion, the society should always remember the silent battles men fight daily, therefore, let us celebrate their achievements, empathize with their struggles and work collectively to create an environment where men can thrive without fear of judgment or failure.
Addressing issues affecting men is not just beneficial for men, it ultimately enriches the society as a whole.
