When young people grow up, there's often a popular opinion that men shouldn't cry or show emotions. This societal expectation can lead to men bottling up their issues, fearing that showing vulnerability will make them appear weak.
Unfortunately, this stigma can have devastating consequences, contributing to the prevalence of mental health issues and even suicide among men.
Society has shaped men to become creatures that suppress their emotional side, but with the growing concern of mental health issues, it's essential that this issue is addressed. As the world observes Men's Health Month in June, mental health should be a major talking point.
Tapiwa Chirongo, a 25-year-old SKILLZ Coach at Grassroot Soccer, shared his story of battling depression. Despite being a peer mentor, he never thought he would suffer from the same issues he helped young people navigate. However, after his grandmother's illness and passing, he found himself struggling to cope with stress and sadness.
"I tried to stay strong and be there for her, but deep down, I was falling apart," Chirongo said. "I didn't want to be a burden to those who were close to me with my struggles, so I kept everything bottled up inside."
Chirongo's experience is not unique. Many men struggle to open up about their mental health issues due to societal stigma. However, through Grassroot Soccer's MindSKILLZ program, he found a safe space to share his story and learn how to manage stress and cope with depression.
The MindSKILLZ program has reached over 5, 014 young people in Bulawayo and Harare and an estimated nine million through its media program via the radio and social media, providing life-saving information, services, and mentorship that young people need to live healthy lives.
Chirongo's story shows the importance of men opening up about their mental health issues and seeking help when needed.
"With the correct information and knowledge, men should start to open up and stop bottling issues," Chirongo emphasised. "It's also common that men have poor health-seeking behaviors, and there's a general need for men to seek health services for their own benefit."
Chirongo hopes to encourage other men to speak up about their mental health struggles and seek help without fear of judgment. As he says, "It's okay not to be okay, stress is indeed a part of life but too much of it is harmful." His story serves as a powerful reminder that mental health issues can affect anyone, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
