By Zina Nguru

Men’s Mental Health Month is observed yearly in the month of June. Its origins stem from Men’s health month which was established in the United States in 2003 by the Men’s Health Network. As men’s health month sought to address various aspects of men’s health, men’s mental health awareness month seeks to highlight the unique mental health challenges that men face whilst encouraging them to seek help for the issues that they are facing.

Statistics regarding men’s mental health are concerning if not chilling. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, compared to women globally, men are less likely to be diagnosed with mental health conditions including depressive disorders. In contrast, they are much more likely to die by suicide and to experience substance use disorder. This I believe is much indicative of a graver gnawing concern, that warrants attention if not swift action.

A popular “joke” online is that majority of the challenges that women face today are due to men i.e. MEN-opause, MEN-stration, and MEN-tal health. While this may appear so, taking a look at the major issues facing the society today, such as poverty, crime and delinquency, education attainment etc., it’s worth considering that, just maybe, addressing men’s mental health and more so from a loving and empathic approach, could be a crucial part of the solution in addressing some of the societal ills being witnessed today.

The Illinois Department of Public Health, postulates that the biggest causes of mental health issues in men’s lives are work pressure (32%), financial issues (31%), and health issues (23%). Some of the strategies to address these issues may include but are not limited to, encouraging and promoting a safe and non-judgmental help seeking behavior, intentionally engaging in self-care practices, and building a strong network of friends, family and community.

In light of this, all men should know they are seen, loved, and appreciated and that the daily sacrifices they silently make for themselves and their loved ones, do not go unnoticed. To those who are presently struggling with their mental health, remember that, the strongest men are not those that show no emotion, but those who feel deeply and still choose to be brave.

Men’s Mental Health Matters!