As the world marks Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month this June, residents of Port Harcourt are lending their voices to the growing conversation around the psychological well-being of men. The month serves as a time to break the silence, challenge societal stereotypes, and spotlight the struggles that many men face—often in isolation.
Reports consistently show that men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health problems, yet they are more likely to die by suicide. Experts believe this troubling trend is largely due to cultural expectations, stigma, and the misconception that men must always be strong, stoic, and unshakable.
Some Port Harcourt residents are now urging families and communities to do more to support responsible fathers and the everyday men who silently bear the weight of expectations.
“Responsible fathers have a lot on their shoulders,” Mrs. Ijeoma Amadi said. “This idea that men don’t cry or should carry the world on their backs is outdated. As a woman, yes, he may be the provider, but you can’t just sit and watch him struggle. Support him. He is the head, but you are the neck. And the head cannot stand straight if the neck is not strong. We need to nurture and uplift them.”
Another resident added, “Good fathers are heroes without cake. These men cry in ways we don’t see. They deserve more than just recognition—they need rest, vacations, pleasant surprises, and emotional support.”
Speaking to our reporter, Human Capacity Development Expert Dr. Patric Uduma explained that ignorance and societal pressure are major contributors to men’s mental health challenges. He emphasized the importance of education and awareness.
“I think ignorance is one of the key reasons men remain under so much pressure,” Dr. Uduma noted. “Men are constantly measuring themselves by unrealistic standards. When you don’t understand how your mental framework shapes your life, you end up stuck in a cycle of pressure and silence. That’s why we’ve created platforms where men can rediscover themselves and their value—mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.”
Dr. Uduma further disclosed that his organization is offering access to therapy and self-discovery programs specifically for men.
“We’re re-educating men and raising awareness. When men learn to regulate their emotions and seek help, everyone benefits. We’ll have more productive, emotionally available fathers, workers, and leaders. It’s not about being better than someone else; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself.”
As Men’s Mental Health Month continues, voices from Port Harcourt and beyond are calling for more compassion, awareness, and action. The message is clear: Men cry too, and they deserve a safe space to heal.
