MEN have been urged to speak openly about stress, depression and other mental health challenges instead of suffering in silence, as experts warn that deeply rooted cultural beliefs continue to prevent many from seeking help until it is too late.
The acting Head of Research of the Mental Health Authority (MHA), Samuel Cudjoe Hanu, made the call at a mental health outreach programme, which was organised by Mental Health 4 Men (M4M Ghana), a campaign project by Master of Arts Development Communication students of UniMAC-IJ, held for the Men's Fellowship of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, New Abossey Okai Congregation, Mataheko.
The outreach formed part of efforts to increase mental health awareness among men and encourage early help-seeking to reduce the growing burden of mental illness and suicide in the country.
Addressing the congregation, Mr Hanu said societal expectations that portray men as emotionally strong had created a culture where many suffered in silence instead of seeking support.
Barima nsu
Barima nsu (men do not cry) and "Man up" had reinforced harmful stereotypes that discouraged men from expressing their emotions and discussing their mental health struggles.
"Men also go through emotional pain. They experience stress, anxiety and depression, but many were afraid to speak because society expects them to remain strong.
When men are stressed, they should speak up. Silence is not an option," he said.
He stressed that mental health conditions were treatable and encouraged men to seek professional help early rather than allowing their conditions to deteriorate.
As part of efforts to improve access to mental health support, Mr Hanu shared the Ghana Mental Health Authority's toll-free helpline, 0800 678 678, urging anyone experiencing emotional distress or psychological difficulties to call for assistance.
The programme also highlighted the growing mental health crisis in Ghana.
Citing figures from the World Health Organisation (WHO), M4M Ghana noted that more than 2.3 million Ghanaians were living with various mental health conditions, while about 98 per cent were unable to access the treatment they needed.
The group further referenced findings from the WHO Ghana STEPS Survey (2023), which indicated that 6.4 per cent of men experienced moderate to severe depression, while 3.1 per cent of men aged between 18 and 69 have seriously considered attempting suicide within the previous 12 months.
Data from the MHA also showed that 134 suicide deaths were recorded in 2024, representing a 40 per cent increase over the previous year.
The statistics, M4M Ghana noted, underscored the urgent need to tackle stigma, improve access to mental health services and encourage more men to seek support without fear of discrimination or ridicule.
The outreach also featured presentations on recognising the signs of mental health disorders, available support services and an interactive question-and-answer session where participants discussed practical ways of supporting one another and promoting positive mental well-being within their families, churches and communities.
