Men’s Mental Health Matters

In Kenya, the silent crisis of men’s mental health is unfolding, with societal expectations often compelling men to suppress their struggles. This June, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a perfect moment to confront these challenges and create a culture of openness and support.

The Big Picture
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, men account for approximately 58 percent of mental disorder cases, surpassing women. Moreover, the suicide rate in Kenya is about 11 per 100,000 people, translating to roughly four deaths per day — the majority being men. These numbers reflect a broader global pattern, where men are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges but often go unnoticed.

Why It Matters
Societal expectations often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. Traditional gender roles emphasize stoicism and self-reliance, leading many men to suffer in silence. This reluctance to seek support exacerbates mental health problems and significantly increases the risk of suicide.

The Barriers
Several key factors contribute to the mental health crisis among men:

• Stigma: Mental health issues are heavily stigmatized, preventing open discussion.
• Cultural Norms: Traditional beliefs discourage emotional expression and seeking help.
• Lack of Awareness: Many men are unaware of the symptoms or available support systems.

What’s Being Done
In a landmark decision in January 2025, Kenya’s High Court ruled that criminalizing attempted suicide is unconstitutional. This ruling represents a major step toward decriminalizing and destigmatizing mental health issues.

Organizations like Population Services Kenya, KEMRI, and others are increasingly focusing on mental health outreach, education, and accessible care, especially for men.

Men’s mental health is  a public health concern. Tackling the stigma, changing harmful societal norms, and expanding access to resources are crucial steps in creating a supportive environment for men to seek help.