This November, in recognition of Men’s Mental Health Month, we aim to delve deeper into the challenges faced by them and explore ways to support their well-being. While they often shoulder multiple responsibilities and grapple with a range of emotions, they may prefer to remain ‘silent’. Understanding if this behavior is considered normal?
Sarmistha Mitra, Holistic Health Expert, Founder and CEO of The Wellbeing Sanctuary spoke at length about how there’s a huge story behind men choosing to remain silent.
She said, “Creating a space where men feel comfortable to open up is critical to their well-being and societal health. When men suppress their emotions, they carry the weight of unspoken burdens, often leading to mental health struggles, unaddressed frustrations, and isolation.”
Time to embrace vulnerability and open communication
Speaking about how silence affects not only men but those around them including families, friends, and colleagues, Mitra added, “Imagine a society where, because of stigma, men have been conditioned to remain silent: what we lose is an environment of mutual understanding, empathy, and growth.”
To function harmoniously, we must embrace vulnerability and open communication. Often left undiscussed, “Men, too, need the freedom to express their emotions and connect with themselves and others on a deeper level.” She emphasized that openness fosters stronger relationships and empowers men to become supportive leaders who recognize that true strength includes vulnerability.
The cost of silence
Jibran Munaf, Founder and Managing Director, The Finance 360, said that “silence has become a fortress men retreat to, fortified not by strength but by the fear of vulnerability in a world that often misinterprets emotional expression as weakness.” He then said, “The truth is, every man who carries his burdens alone surrenders a piece of himself to an unforgiving solitude, eroding mental fortitude with each silent struggle.”
“We must redefine what it means to be strong. True strength lies in the courage to voice our pain, to confront the stigmas that force us into silence, and to understand that asking for support is not a forfeiture of masculinity but a profound act of self-preservation. By speaking out, we affirm our humanity, not just as men, but as beings deserving of empathy, healing, and connection,” he added.
Break the stigma
We discussed in today’s world – it’s crucial to challenge outdated notions of masculinity that often suppress men’s emotions. By breaking the stigma surrounding male vulnerability, we can foster a society where men feel empowered to express themselves authentically. The silence surrounding men’s mental health can lead to serious consequences, including relationship breakdowns and identity crises.
Well, it’s time to redefine strength. We also spoke to 23-year-old Beshr, living in the UAE for 14 years, he said, “Often, men are expected to be emotionally strong, which can discourage them from openly discussing their struggles. While I’m still young and navigating life’s challenges, I aspire to create a space where I can be honest and confident in expressing myself.”
Don’t let your inner self hurtÂ
A resident of Sharjah, working for an IT company, highlighted how men generally break from within but fail to express it to their close people, considering the emotional baggage and responsibilities they own. He said, “Sometimes, due to unforeseen situations at the workplace, we’re breaking inside but can’t share it with our family as they’re already grappling with so much. At times, we lose hope, but we’re strong, so we let things go and let it settle.'”
Men are beautiful, their souls shine each dayÂ
Men are beautiful, a father, a son, a brother, a doctor, a lawyer, a teacher, and be it anyone — They always have this side that’s left unsaid, and just need a shoulder to express. Strongest of all, mindful of all, we believe each has its own unique story to tell.
