Youth development and mental health advocate Timothy Aposiyine Nsoh has called for sustained national attention on men’s mental health, saying awareness months such as June should serve as a trigger for continuous action rather than a time-bound campaign.
Speaking on A1 Radio’s Equal Voices programme, Mr. Nsoh said international observances such as Men’s Mental Health Month are meant to focus public attention on key issues, deepen understanding, and encourage action, not restrict discussions to a single period.
“International awareness days are not meant to limit conversations to a single month, but to help us concentrate attention and action on important issues like men’s mental health,” he said.
He noted that many people remain unaware that mental health services are available in health facilities across Ghana, including CHPS compounds and hospitals, where trained professionals provide support.
“Many people still do not know that men also go through emotional and psychological struggles, and that help is available at our health facilities,” he said.
Mr. Nsoh said social expectations often discourage men from expressing emotions, leading many to suppress their struggles until they develop into more serious psychological conditions.
“Society has taught men to be strong and not show emotions, but suppressing feelings for too long can lead to serious mental health challenges,” he said.
He stressed that mental health challenges cut across gender, age, and social status, warning that many men suffer silently despite appearing fine externally.
“A man can be struggling silently while appearing fine on the outside. That is why we must learn to pay attention to emotional wellbeing,” he said.
Mr. Nsoh urged men to seek professional help without stigma, describing it as a responsible step rather than a sign of weakness.
“Seeking help from a mental health professional is not a sign of weakness. It is a responsible step toward healing,” he said.
He encouraged stronger public education on mental health and reminded the public that mental health officers are available in health facilities to provide support.
He also commended health workers and institutions in the Upper East Region for their role in mental health advocacy and public education.
Mr. Nsoh called for continuous awareness beyond designated observance months, saying mental health must remain a permanent public health priority.
“Mental health awareness should not end in June. It must continue every day because mental wellbeing is a lifelong concern,” he said.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Keziah Porepeya Nsoh | Bolgatanga
