Mental health advocate Elago Nantana stated that Namibia has witnessed an alarming increase in suicides.
He said these figures can be minimised, as suicide is preventable with the right support and resources. Nantana added that suicide is a global health concern, with profound social and personal impacts. By understanding the issue and taking action, lives can be saved through support.
“We need to openly discuss mental health and reduce stigma, foster a sense of belonging and mutual support, inspire others with stories of resilience and recovery, and provide tools and resources for self-care and well-being,” he said.
He was speaking at a Tsumeb Men’s Mental Health Awareness workshop recently.
The Delivery Room Foundation, with the support of Sinomine Tsumeb Community Trust, hosted the Tsumeb Men’s Mental Health Awareness workshop to address critical issues affecting men. The workshop created a safe platform for men to engage in meaningful conversations, learn from experienced speakers, and acquire practical tools to improve their mental and emotional well-being. Nantana said consulting with a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, can provide the necessary support and guidance for managing mental health challenges.
“As a man, you need to practice self-care by engaging in activities that promote physical, emotional and spiritual well-being such as exercise, meditation and spending time in
nature, which can be beneficial,” he stated.
He said the risk factors of mental health include substance abuse (drug or alcohol misuse, leading to impaired judgment), depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, chronic pain, isolation, traumatic events (loss, breakups and financial issues), childhood trauma, abuse or neglect, chronic stress, lack of social support, feelings of disconnect and physical health.
He added: “Talking about wanting to die, feelings of worthlessness, helplessness and hopelessness or being a burden, giving away possessions, withdrawing from friends, increased substance use or reckless behaviour, extreme mood swings or sudden calm after depression,” are warning signs.
Nantana said the protective factors are strong social connections, access to mental health- care and resources, coping skills, supportive relationships and social connections, developing coping skills and problem-solving abilities as well as a sense of purpose or responsibility (e.g., children and career).
In addition, listening with empathy and without judgment, asking them directly if they are thinking about suicide, encouraging them to seek professional help (crisis hotlines or counselling), offering to help them connect with resources and staying by their side, are ways to be supportive.
Speakers included Isaac Hoaeb, who highlighted the importance of positive fatherhood.
Nico Kaiyamo deliberated on entrepreneurship.
Additionally, detective Shilima Willem from the gender-based violence office and Inspector Petrus from the Tsumeb police station spoke about the impact of crime and violence.
Lloyd Sikeba spoke about faith and leadership.
The team said the workshop was a significant milestone in changing the conversation about men’s mental health and personal development in Tsumeb.
-psiririka@nepc.com.na