By Adebowale Johnson
In a significant step towards breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, a conference titled “A Fight for Life” recently brought together men from diverse backgrounds to discuss their struggles and vulnerabilities. Organized by mental health advocate, Oluwatunmise Oladapo-Kuku, the event aimed to create a safe space for men to open up and seek support.
Oluwatunmise, host of the podcast “Mindfully with Tunmise” and lead coach at Blackhemages Coaching, shared her personal motivation for the event. Inspired by her father’s late-diagnosed bipolar affective disorder, she emphasized the importance of starting conversations about men’s mental health. “The event was a call to address the mental health struggles men often face in silence,” she said. “I hope this programme encourages men to talk about their vulnerabilities and seek help for their psychological issues without fear of judgment.” She believes it’s better for men to stay healthy for their families rather than die for them.
The conference featured mental health experts who shed light on the prevalence of mental health issues among men, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and schizophrenia. They highlighted the impact of suppressed emotions on physical health, urging men to prioritize their mental well-being.
Dr. Gbenga Coker, a consultant at the Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre, explained that men who feel ashamed of their vulnerabilities may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse, aggressive behaviour, or social withdrawal. Suppressed emotions, he warned, can lead to serious health problems like low libido, high blood pressure, heart disease and chronic pain. “Men should stop seeing their vulnerability as a weakness, but instead view it as a springboard to seek help. They should stop worrying about little things because little things are always there.”
He also pointed out the crucial role of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine in mental health, explaining that imbalances can lead to conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, and mood swings. To promote a healthier mental lifestyle, he advocated for a balanced diet, adequate water intake, regular physical exercise, and, most importantly, self-integration and self-awareness. He emphasized the importance of fitting in with oneself and one’s community to achieve overall well-being. Urging men to adopt healthier habits, practice self-care, and break the stigma surrounding mental health.
The event features activities such as guided meditations and mindfulness exercises, games and bonding exercises. Participants expressed their appreciation for the conference. Ayobami Samuel described the program as both informative and eye-opening, calling for more events like it to make a greater impact. Emmanuel E-Bright echoed this sentiment, expressing his pleasure and gratitude for the initiative.
The event’s success highlights the growing recognition of the importance of addressing men’s mental health. By encouraging open discussions and offering practical tools and support, the conference aimed to dismantle the stigma around male vulnerability and promote a healthier, more supportive environment for men to thrive