Whilst men and women suffer from similar difficulties regarding their mental health, there is a difference in the way they address them.

This is according to Namibian Police Force (NamPol) Oshana Regional Commander, Commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sakaria, during the third National Men’s Conference held at Ondangwa on Friday.

Sakaria stated that women tend to be more open in discussing their feelings and emotions, whereas men have a tendency to keep it to themselves and suffer in silence.

He indicated that with many men suffering in silence and experiencing feelings such as depression and anxiety, much more needs to be done for them to feel both encouraged and comfortable with opening up and taking that first step towards seeking help.

‘It is okay not to be okay. Masculinity comes from the cultural indoctrination of the male role – a belief system in some cultures where men are not expected to show emotions – men don’t cry,’ he said.

He added that it is also okay to cry as positive masculinity promotes eq
uality, respect and dignity of all people irrespective of their gender identities.

Furthermore, Sakaria stated that a total of 41 men committed suicide in the region this year compared to 43 last year, while two men were raped compared to three last year.

Source: Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA)