By Omolola Okunsanya Mental health is an integral aspect of our overall well-being, yet it remains an often overlooked and stigmatized topic in society. It affects everyone, regardless of gender, age, or background.
Mental health “is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well and contribute to their community.”
According to WHO Mental health is “more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities.” Strong mental health isn’t just the absence of mental health problems. Being mentally or emotionally healthy is much more than being free of depression, anxiety, or other psychological issues. Rather than the absence of mental illness, mental health refers to the presence of positive characteristics.
Often, most Nigerians see mental health as a spiritual health while most views it as a myth that is why it often tends to be overlooked. In response to this, former Medical Director of Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Rahman Lawal, also mentioned this fact during an interview. He said that many people refuse to visit the hospital for treatment on mental issues because they believe psychiatric illness is a spiritual issue.
Thus, they would rather take such mental health patients to spiritual healing homes, churches or faith organizations to get cure through spiritual means. Many parents, as well as spiritual healers, equate most mental illness to spiritual attacks, and this has paved the way for the dehumanization of mentally challenged Nigerians.
Nigeria's National Mental Health Act 2021 was signed into law on Jan 5, 2023, after two decades of struggle to repeal the outdated, colonial mental health legislation and also the view that mental health is a spiritual problem. With this achievement, Nigeria joins the few African countries that have revised or enacted new mental health legislation in accordance with WHO's call for member countries to use legal reforms to end human rights violations against people with mental health conditions.
In this article, we will explore the intricate ways in which mental health impacts both men and women, shedding light on the unique challenges each gender faces while emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and support.
Some of the impacts will be ensconced below. The Prevalence of Mental Health Issues Both men and women experience mental health issues, but the prevalence and the way these issues manifest can differ. Women are statistically more likely to experience conditions like depression and anxiety, partly due to hormonal fluctuations and societal pressures. Men, on the other hand, often face a higher risk of substance abuse and suicide. Recognizing these differences is essential for targeted support.
Gender Roles and Expectations Society has long perpetuated traditional gender roles and expectations, impacting how men and women cope with mental health challenges. Men are often encouraged to be stoic and tough, making it difficult for them to express vulnerability or seek help. Women, meanwhile, may face undue pressure to appear nurturing and composed, which can discourage them from acknowledging their struggles.
Seeking Help and Stigma Stigma surrounding mental health affects everyone, but it can be particularly harsh for both genders. Men may fear that seeking help will be perceived as a sign of weakness, while women may worry about being labelled as "overemotional." This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking timely support, exacerbating their conditions.
Coping Mechanisms Men and women may develop different coping mechanisms in response to mental health challenges. Men might resort to substance abuse or risky behaviour as a way to numb their emotions, while women may internalize their feelings or engage in self-harming behaviours.
Understanding these patterns can help tailor intervention strategies. The Power of Support Systems Building strong support networks is crucial for both genders. Encouraging open conversations about mental health within families, workplaces, and communities can create safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences. Moreover, encouraging men to reach out for help and empowering women to prioritize self-care are vital steps in addressing these issues.
Mental health affects both men and women in complex and unique ways, largely influenced by societal expectations and biological factors. To break the barriers surrounding mental health, it is crucial to foster understanding, provide non-judgmental support, and challenge the stereotypes that prevent individuals from seeking help. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their gender.
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