In Nigeria, men are often expected to embody strength, independence, and emotional toughness, making it challenging for them to acknowledge and seek help for depression. This societal pressure can lead to emotional suppression, which may contribute to anxiety disorders and depression. Affected men may experience irritability, aggression, hopelessness, social withdrawal, and difficulties functioning at home and work. Experts stress the importance of early recognition and professional intervention to mitigate the effects of depression.
According to Prof. Taiwo Obindo, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Jos, cultural expectations can discourage men from acknowledging depression. He notes that men generally suppress and hide their depression symptoms due to cultural expectations that men cannot be weak. This can make their symptoms chronic, and Obindo emphasizes the need for awareness and early professional intervention. He also identifies sleep and appetite disturbances, weight loss, poor memory, reduced libido, nightmares, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts as warning signs of depression in men.
Obindo, also Chairman of the Faculty of Psychiatry at the West African College of Physicians (Nigeria Chapter), urges families and employers to watch for behavioral changes, poor self-care, social withdrawal, and declining workplace performance in men. He stresses that accessible mental health services can provide safe spaces for men to discuss their challenges, while exercise can help manage pent-up anger and emotional distress. The Mental Health Act places responsibility on employers to assist workers in accessing appropriate mental health services.
A midlife crisis can arise from unmet expectations, hormonal changes, and societal pressures, affecting men's relationships and decision-making. Obindo notes that this can occur when men's achievements fall short of personal expectations. He emphasizes the need for supportive workplaces and community awareness to address men's mental health.
Anthony Ezeobele, a clinical psychology scholar at Lagos State University, adds that societal expectations of masculinity, fear of judgment, and family responsibilities can discourage men from seeking help. He notes that men often hide depression because society teaches them that masculinity means being strong, independent, and emotionally tough. Ezeobele warns that untreated depression can lead to severe emotional distress, anxiety, substance abuse, physical exhaustion, sleep problems, and, in some cases, suicide.
Ezeobele identifies persistent sadness, irritability, social withdrawal, excessive drinking, loss of interest, appetite changes, and poor concentration as warning signs of depression in men. As a Catholic priest, he emphasizes the importance of addressing men's mental health and providing support. Experts stress that early recognition and professional intervention are crucial in mitigating the effects of depression.
The conversation around men's mental health in Nigeria highlights the need for increased awareness and support. Experts emphasize that men can experience depression and that it is essential to provide safe spaces for them to discuss their challenges. By promoting community awareness and supportive workplaces, Nigeria can work towards reducing the stigma associated with men's mental health and encouraging men to seek help.
Key points
- Societal expectations of masculinity discourage men from acknowledging depression or seeking help.
- Emotional suppression can contribute to anxiety disorders and depression in men.
- Accessible mental health services and supportive workplaces can help address men's mental health.
