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Tsenulo Moyo
THE notion that “men don’t cry” and that “men are strong” has led society to forget that men are human too. Both genders, male and female, are human and can experience the same emotions and challenges.
Recent statistics reveal a disturbing trend in Bulawayo where men are disproportionately represented in suicide rates. According to police records, Bulawayo has recorded 21 suicide cases since June this year, with an alarming 20 involving men.
This challenges the societal stereotype that men are strong and emotionless. The alarming number of male suicides in the city raises questions about the mental health support available to men and the need to address the stigma surrounding male vulnerability.
Commenting on the alarming rate of male suicides indicated by the statistics, Dr Francis Siziba, a psychologist, behavioural scientist and executive director of World Mental Resilience Programmes, said most individuals who commit suicide do not leave a note explaining their reasons, and a significant portion of these cases involve men.
“These males take drastic, serious and dangerous measures when committing suicide. We have more cases of attempted suicide in females and successful suicides in males,” he said.
He explained that the African concept of masculinity has led men to hide their pain and tears, but ultimately, this results in them taking drastic measures.
“The mental health-seeking behaviour is not prevalent in men. There’s a lack of education and awareness about the importance of seeking help, such as talking to someone or a professional. It’s not a crime for a man to be vulnerable,” he said.
He also said there are different demographics of men committing suicide, such as rich men, poor men, single men and married men, as they tend to isolate themselves with their problems.
“Lack of emotional support is a number one factor leading men to commit suicide. Men are out there pretending to be happy while inside they are hurting, compared to women who are open and share their problems,” Dr Siziba said.
“It’s hard to say there are certain red flags in men planning to commit suicide because they sometimes pretend to be so happy. However, the most notable signs include jokes with a suicidal aspect, self-isolation, drastic changes in behaviour and neglect of oneself,” he said.
Dr Siziba highlighted various factors, including debt, job loss, family issues, infidelity and domestic abuse, can drive men to contemplate suicide.
He emphasised the need for increased mental health awareness and support, particularly within social institutions like churches, schools and workplaces.
By incorporating mental health screening and implementing strategies to address male mental health, these institutions can play a crucial role in preventing suicides.
Bulawayo deputy police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele described suicide as a silent pandemic, with most people unaware of the mental health struggles of those close to them until it’s too late.
“Most people who commit suicide show intentions, but most relatives and friends ignore these signs, even when they mention it casually. No one takes it seriously or inquires further,” said Asst Insp Msebele.
In an interview with our sister paper, the Chronicle, Dr Wellington Ranga, clinical director at Ingutsheni Central Hospital, said: “We are suffering from the same issues and these are contributing to the rising rates of suicide among men. While we encourage individuals to seek help from counsellors and pastors when they experience mental distress, the sad reality is that some of our brothers, despite seeking this support, still end up taking their lives.”
“The counsellors we recommend, including pastors and experienced professionals, are sharing the same stresses we face and you can hear them directly or indirectly seeking counselling themselves.”
He added: “Thus, if those we trust for guidance are struggling with their own mental health, we must question the safety and effectiveness of their support.
“We cannot continue relying on outdated methods for managing stress and mental health that have repeatedly proven ineffective.
“We must convene around new approaches and work together to develop effective solutions for addressing mental health issues.”
Another mental health expert Barbara Kamba Nyathi, suggested that the root cause of high male suicide rates lies in traditional gender roles and expectations.
“The “manly” stereotype, which discourages men from expressing emotions or seeking help, can contribute to feelings of isolation and despair,” she said.
Nyathi proposed that society should shift its approach to raising boys. Boys should be allowed to express themselves freely, cry when needed and even play with dolls without fear of judgment.
By challenging these rigid gender norms, she said society can foster a more empathetic and supportive environment for men’s mental health.
Online Reporter