Experts challenge culture of silence among men on mental health
Samuel Cudjoe Hanu, Acting Head of Research at the Ghana Mental Health Authority, made a call on July 12 at a mental health outreach programme for the Men's Fellowship of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, New Abossey Okai Congregation, Mataheko. He stressed that mental health conditions were treatable when identified and managed early.
Mr. Hanu observed that the belief men must always appear strong and emotionally unshaken prevents many from speaking about stress, depression, and other mental health challenges. He stated that expressions such as 'Barima nsu' (men do not cry) and "man up" have contributed to a culture where many men hide their struggles and delay seeking professional support. The outreach was organized by Mental Health 4 Men (M4M Ghana), a campaign project by Master of Arts Development Communication students of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC-IJ). Mr. Hanu said, "Men also go through emotional pain. They experience stress, anxiety and depression, but many are afraid to speak because society expects them to remain strong. When men are stressed, they should speak up. Silence is not an option."
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A mental health expert in Ghana is challenging the cultural norms that discourage men from discussing their mental health struggles. This societal
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