June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, an opportune time to spotlight the commendable efforts of Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch and his bill to decriminalise suicide.
This initiative builds on the High Court’s landmark ruling in January by Justice Lawrence Mugambi, who declared Section 266 of the Penal Code, which criminalised suicide, unconstitutional. This ruling was a significant stride for Kenya’s mental health landscape, and Oluoch’s bill will provide crucial legal clarity.
The World Health Organisation points out that criminalising suicide does not deter suicidal thoughts, attempts, or deaths. Instead, it creates a formidable barrier, preventing individuals in distress from seeking the help they desperately need. Justice Mugambi’s ruling underscored how Section 266 violated Section 27 of the Constitution, which enshrines the right to health, a fundamental protection. Globally, suicide disproportionately affects men, with rates twice as high as those among women. This compels us to examine the multiple factors that predispose men to mental health issues, sometimes leading to tragic outcomes.
A key culprit is deeply ingrained societal expectations and rigid gender norms, a challenge not exclusive to Africa. Men are constantly pressured to “man up,” suppress emotions, and embody strength and stoicism. This relentless conditioning results in men who cannot articulate their struggles, presenting a brave face until it’s perilously late.
Without healthy outlets, men may resort to destructive coping mechanisms like substance abuse or reckless sexual behaviour, which can lead them into deeper problems.
Men are innately wired to provide and take charge, making them particularly vulnerable to emotional distress when they cannot fulfil this role. Relationship breakdowns, divorce, toxic work environments, and bereavement weigh heavily on men, just as they do on women.
This June, my advice, which I am also striving to internalise, draws from the wisdom of psychology and counselling experts. Prioritise physical exercise. Engage in activities you genuinely enjoy—whether it’s watching a game, a movie, reading, writing, or volunteering. Make time for these pursuits. Throughout this month, actively reconnect with friends, colleagues, and relatives who bring positivity into your life.
Focus on eating well and getting adequate sleep. While circumstances may not always be ideal for pursuing happiness, dedicate this month to sacrificing for your mental well-being. Financial pressures can be a significant contributor to mental health struggles.
However, I’ve learned that some problems are best tackled with a calm mind, necessitating relaxation and a hopeful outlook. Crucially, recognise when you can no longer cope and seek professional help. Many organisations now offer toll-free helplines where assistance is readily available.
Stress, anxiety, and depression are real and debilitating conditions. While we strive for well-being, remember it’s okay not to be okay, and help is always within reach. Let us not kill ourselves, literally or otherwise.
By Gathenya Njaramba