We are living in the most controversial time in the universe, where the world is transitioning from an old world to a new world. Our life values and beliefs are constantly under change. Depending on where you are, the transition can either be smooth as butter, or life-threatening. Namibia is one of the countries experiencing a gradual transition and for this reason, the consequences are unbearable as they reflect on the youth. The most concerning is suicide.
According to statistics released by the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the country’s suicide rate between January 2021 and May 2022 stood at 679, 18% being women and 82% being men. Suicide is a very sensitive issue, with multiple factors persuading someone to take such actions. Up until today, we are unable to pinpoint why the suicide rate is so much higher in men. An exploration of some cases and day-to-day dialogues with men helps us get an edge on what is happening in men’s lives.
Young male adults in Namibia are under constant pressure to fit into the narrow, rigid, impossibly self-contradictory gender roles, which cause paranoia in their daily lives. In today’s culture, besides becoming physically strong, young boys are expected to mature mentally by being able to achieve financial freedom and suppress their feelings, get a high-paying job, and be able to support their family. A man is supposed to be independent, to strive for his life goals, and live by his own rules. But if he chooses a path that isn’t paved with gold, if he chooses job satisfaction or a happy home life over financial gain, he is a disappointment as society continues to enforce this expectation, directly and indirectly. Men who struggle to meet these expectations are deemed as weak, they are mistreated and disrespected, the majority are not shown love by their spouse, or their family members or friends. This has become the new paradigm through which men live. It has been normalised, and men have accepted this expectation, regardless of how unhealthy they are to them.
Moreover, this has created a ripple-effect in the way men process situations. Due to the fact that these undesirable traits have been normalised, regardless of how men feel, men ignore red flags without knowing how damaging they become to their mental health. Hence, they do not realise they are in a toxic relationship, which leads to emotional exhaustion.
The train has left, and we are caught in the middle of it. But this is how we can help slow it down, get emotional and psychological help during stress, an acceptance of vulnerability, and creating a proper support environment without criticism. Say no to suffering in silence.