Mushongo Eustasius

‘Men don’t cry’; ‘Be a man about it’; ‘Suck it up and deal’. These are just a few examples of the harmful stereotypes that men face when it comes to mental health. Society often expects men to be strong, unemotional and self-reliant, making it difficult for them to express their feelings, seek help and ask for support. 

But as we continue to better understand the nuances of mental health, it is important to challenge these stereotypes and promote a culture of empathy and support. 

Namibia is a country where men are often expected to adhere to traditional gender roles that emphasise strength and stoicism. Unfortunately, this culture of masculinity can lead many men to suffer in silence when it comes to their mental health. Depression is a growing problem among Namibian men. Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair that can interfere with daily life. In Namibia, depression is on the rise, and men are often among the hardest hit. The reasons for this are complex and varied, but one of the main factors is the cultural expectation that men should be strong and self-reliant.

Men in Namibia are often taught from a young age that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. This can make it difficult for them to seek help when they are struggling with depression or other mental health issues. Instead, they may try to cope on their own, which can lead to feelings of isolation and despair. 

As actor Jared Padalecki states: “Always keep fighting. (...) You’re not alone.” This quote emphasises the importance of recognising that mental health struggles do not define someone or make them weak; rather, it takes strength to acknowledge these challenges and seek help. By breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and encouraging open and honest conversations, we can create an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers men to take charge of their mental well-being.

Breaking free from these stereotypes requires a shift in awareness and cultural norms. Men must be empowered to express their emotions without fear of judgment or ridicule. Families and friends can play a major role in this effort by providing a supportive and empathetic environment for men to voice their emotions.

Educating the public is another essential step towards breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Campaigns and social media movements aimed at promoting awareness and de-stigmatizing mental health go a long way in helping men open up about their struggles.

Mental health professionals can also do their part by offering culturally sensitive and gender-inclusive care. By addressing the unique challenges that men face in seeking mental health treatment, such as the fear of judgment, mental health professionals can help men overcome their reservations and make strides towards recovery.

It’s time to start the conversation about breaking down stereotypes. Increasing awareness, promoting empathy, and expanding mental health resources that cater to men’s unique challenges are critical to supporting men’s mental health in the country. With these efforts in place, Namibian men can feel empowered to seek the help they need and break free from the harmful stereotypes that hold them back.

*Mushongo Eustasius is pursuing a post-graduate diploma in Heritage Conservation and Management from the University of Namibia and holds a B.Ed Honours (upper primary).