Men should not view seeking help for mental health challenges as a sign of weakness or shame, but rather as a solution that can improve their well-being and quality of life.
 
This was the advice from speakers at the Ministry of Health and Social Services' Men's Mental Health discussion in Windhoek.
 
At the event, the Director of Atomic Energy and Radiation Protection highlighted the growing pressures facing men and the need to break the silence surrounding mental health struggles.
 
Axel Tibinyane noted that many men continue to suffer in silence due to societal expectations that they should always appear strong and self-reliant.
 
"While significant progress has been made in promoting mental health nationally, many men continue to struggle in silence due to stigma, societal expectations, and the misconception that seeking help is a sign of weakness, which is actually a sign of strength. Therefore, I am delighted to see the turnout to this wellness session; it's good and reflects our shared commitment to promoting the well-being of our employees in the ministry.”
  
According to global statistics, men account for the majority of suicide cases.

The Ministry's Deputy Director of Primary Health Care warned that untreated mental health challenges can have devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities.
 
Dr. Christopher Likando explained that work-related pressures remain among the leading causes of stress for men.

These include job insecurity, financial difficulties, workplace stress, burnout, and the responsibility of providing for families.
 
"You are expected to perform and deliver results, and that can place a great deal of stress on you. There are many expectations, which is why many men choose to remain silent about their struggles and end up suffering emotionally in isolation. The reality is that career success and mental well-being are not competing priorities. They are complementary goals. When you are performing well at work, you are likely to feel positive and confident mentally. On the other hand, when your mental well-being is poor, your productivity and performance at work will decline."
 
The month of June is widely recognized as Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, and it's against this background that the Ministry held the men's mental health event.
 
Experts welcomed the passing of the Mental Health Bill of 2025 by the National Assembly.