Therapy and other forms of tending to one’s mental health are often considered taboo for men and are wrongly perceived as being exclusively for women or the mentally ill. With sobering statistics such as “on average, the country recorded over one suicide per day, with the vast majority of victims – about 82% – being men,” as reported by The Namibian. We, as Nambian men, can no longer afford to subscribe to harmful mentalities.
This article further highlights the importance of men prioritizing their mental wellbeing.
What is therapy, really?
Therapy or Psychotherapy is a structured and professional process of psychological or emotional support and treatment. At first it can be jarring and uncomfortable as would be expected with anything demanding a significant level of vulnerability. However, as you get comfortable with your therapist it begins to feel like a safe and conducive space for working through any and all emotional turmoil.
Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity
Brene Brown, American Professor and Author.
The Stigma
For young men being vulnerable about your mental health feels like betraying the very nature of your being, because of societal norms and outdated unhealthy upbringing. Having been raised to be ‘a real man’, the illusive four-letter word, “help”, can seem impossible to fathom leading to other harmful vices as coping mechanisms.
Benefits of Therapy
- Coping With Transition: The journey into adulthood for young men is marked by significant changes in education, employment, relationships, and independence. These transitions can be both exhilarating and tumultuous. Seeking professional guidance and support during this period can provide valuable coping skills and resilience to navigate the uncertainties of life.
- Early Intervention and Prevention: Mental health conditions can emerge during young adulthood. Early intervention through therapy can help identify and address issues before they escalate into more severe conditions. Seeking therapy allows men to take proactive steps toward maintaining their mental well-being and preventing long-term challenges.
- Fostering Emotional Intelligence: It is essential for men to have a strong, reliable community during times of emotional distress. The expectation to handle everything independently can lead to overwhelming pressure. Therapy can help develop emotional intelligence, providing men with the tools to communicate effectively, build meaningful relationships which result in safe communities free of stigma.
- Enhanced Self-Awareness: Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Through this self-reflection, clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their motivations, and their past experiences, ultimately leading to personal growth and a more authentic life.
- Increased Self-Compassion: Therapy encourages individuals to practice self-compassion and self-acceptance, leading to improved self-esteem and a more forgiving attitude toward oneself.
In a world ravaged by the throws of capitalism, constant political turmoil, staggering poverty rates and discrimination the only sane to need a helping hand every now and then.
Click here for affordable and/or free mental health resources in Namibia.
