Eugenia Moche
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month in June marks a time dedicated to breaking the silence and stigma around issues that many men face but rarely discuss.
Across Namibia and globally, advocates are calling for greater recognition of men’s mental wellbeing and for more support systems to help them cope.
Research shows that men are far less likely to seek professional help for mental health compared to women.
Globally, men account for nearly 70% of suicides, and studies indicate they are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women.
Geluk Psychology services psychological counsellor Simone Fourie told the Windhoek Observer that “having a full month dedicated to men’s mental health can encourage a lot of men to seek professional help to improve their mental health.”
For generations, cultural and societal expectations have shaped how men respond to emotional struggles.
Many are taught to “be strong” or “hide weakness,” which often discourages them from opening up about challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress.
Professionals argue that this stigma can lead to untreated conditions and, in some cases, tragic outcomes.
Fourie added that substance use, often alcohol or drugs, is another challenge tied to anxiety and depression, used as a type of “self-medication” which can further lead to substance abuse.
She explained that women face far less stigma than men when they seek help.
“It’s like it’s far more acceptable for women to seek help than it is for a man because society has created these beliefs and expectations where men are seen as ‘providers’. And when you’re seen as someone that cannot cope, stigmas like ‘tough it out’, ‘don’t be so dramatic’, or ‘don’t be weak’ are put on them and not on women,” Fourie added.
Beyond stigma, men face practical pressures that weigh heavily on their mental health. She said unemployment, financial strain, and family responsibilities are common stressors.
In Namibia, where youth unemployment remains high, young men often struggle with feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness.
Experts warn that men’s mental health struggles are often overlooked because symptoms may present differently than in women.
While women are more likely to express sadness or seek support, men may show irritability, risk-taking behaviour, or physical complaints.
Despite the challenges, recognising these signs and taking small steps to improve mental health can make a big difference.
Fourie added that daily practices such as exercise, good nutrition, adequate sleep, and staying connected to one’s social circle, including friends and family, is especially important when looking after mental wellbeing, but access to therapy and community support remains vital.
“It really is the small things,” she said.
Workplaces, schools, and families also play a role. Encouraging open conversations, offering counselling services, and normalising mental health check-ins can make a big difference.
She further pointed out that younger and older men often face different challenges. Younger men may struggle with identity, career uncertainty, and peer pressure but are more open to therapy, while older men may grapple with retirement, health issues, or loneliness.
Tailored support is needed to address these varying experiences, she added.
As a call to action, Men’s Mental Health Month should not only raise awareness but also inspire action. Communities are urged to create initiatives that reach men where they are, whether in sports clubs, workplaces, or schools.
As Namibia continues to confront social and economic challenges, mental health must remain a priority.
Fourie advised that men should not feel ashamed to seek therapy. “I think it’s a shame that more men don’t go to therapy. Real men go to therapy,” she stated.
She further stressed that, for many men, the message this June is simple, saying “go to therapy and learn something about yourself that you didn’t know. Mental health is not a weakness; it is part of being human.”
