Mental health is not a destination, it is a process. — Dr Noam Shpancer, PhD

The issue of mental health is one of those topics which is always relevant, regardless of the time of year. For some, Christmas is that time of year at which happiness is aplenty and nothing else matters. On the other hand, there are those who are depressed around the holidays. Many of us have experienced mood swings and think nothing of it.

Unfortunately, mental health care is expensive and without insurance many are placed in dangerous situations regarding making that choice between putting food on the table or seeing a mental health provider. In fact, for most folks the choice is automatic, food is a primary need. Sadly, when we sacrifice our mental health we live to regret that decision.

It makes no sense to judge or second guess someone who has taken his or her life. Mental health is not a destination in that once we arrive at that safe place our mental state remains safe forever. Mental health wellness requires vigilance in safeguarding our sanity concerning situations and people who are toxic. In many instances, the toxicity is at the place of work. There are those who consciously or subconsciously try to break us; many of whom call themselves Christians.

Men and Mental Wellness

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as a common mental disorder. Globally, it is estimated that 5 per cent of adults suffer from the disorder. It is characterised by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities. It can also disturb sleep and appetite. Tiredness and poor concentration are common. Depression is a leading cause of disability globally.

Mental wellness is tough for everyone. While discussions around mental health seem to be expanding in reach and compassion, there is still some cultural and social stigma around depression, particularly among men. As men, many of us have been socialised in a culturally gendered manner which calls on us to be tough and void of emotions. For many we shun from sharing our emotions even with those whom we consider to be close to us.

Male bonding is usually frowned in many societies. As a result, many men suffer in silence. As men we tend to look at the flawed blueprint regarding the construction of masculinity. Men oftentimes buy into this false notion of masculinity and manhood, which presupposes that we must always be happy regardless of the pain around. This toxic masculinity many times prevents men from seeking help whether it’s for their mental wellness or general well being.

A recent study done revealed that 53 per cent of men in Jamaican are depressed. According to the study more than half (53 per cent) of men in Jamaica have been experiencing varying levels of depression during this so-called post-COVID-19 period, according to an islandwide study conducted by Northern Caribbean University (NCU) in October and November 2022. The levels of depression recorded were 41 per cent mild, eight per cent moderate, and four per cent severe, the university said in a release.

The study, titled Assessing Depression in Jamaican Males: Post-COVID-19, further revealed that nearly 10 per cent of the 1,066 adult males surveyed attempted to take their own life or had thoughts of doing so, or wished they were dead. Another 25 per cent felt their life was not worth living. The survey findings have a plus/minus 3 per cent margin of error.

According to the NCU study, depression can be defined as a mood disorder which is associated with feelings of sadness and loss of interest, which negatively affects how one feels, thinks, and behaves. Depression results in a disruption of various aspects of daily living and may present itself in times of stress, crises, or conflicting events. If not treated promptly, it can affect one’s functioning.

The WHO has indicated that depression affects approximately 3.8 per cent of the world’s population (280 million people), noting that 75 per cent of people in low- and middle-income nations go untreated for this mental health disorder. Further analysis of the NCU research findings revealed that the desire to be dead was more pronounced among younger men (eight per cent of the 18-21 years old cohort along with eight per cent of men 22-25 years of age). Nearly six per cent of men, aged 26-29 years, and five per cent of those ages 30+ years old expressed the sentiment. These findings reflect the view of the WHO that, “The pandemic has affected the mental health of young people and that they are disproportionally at risk of suicidal and self-harming behaviours.”

Paul Bourne, interim director of Institutional Research at the Mandeville-based university, said the study “has brought a preview of the mental health challenges experienced by Jamaican males, and this speaks to a silent killer that is being nurtured in the minds of these individuals”.

Stephen “tWitch” Boss

Suicide should not be viewed through racial lens; instead, we should view death by suicide as a human issue which affects all races.

The death by suicide of Stephen “tWitch” Boss has once again elevated the issue of mental wellness in the black community and specifically regarding men. Many of us know of Boss from his appearances on The Ellen DeGeneres Show where he was a co-host. tWitch was a man who wore many hats. He was a dancer who rose to fame thanks to Fox‘s So You Think You Can Dance and, earlier this year, became a permanent judge on the show.

He was born in Montgomery, Alabama, on September 29, 1982. He got his tWitch nickname as a child, from popping and ticking, when he couldn’t sit still. In 2000, he graduated from Lee High School in Montgomery, Alabama. He went on to study dance performance at Southern Union State Community College in Wadley, Alabama, and Chapman University. In 2003 he was a semifinalist on MTV‘s The Wade Robson Project (2003). He was also a runner-up on the television talent competition Star Search (2003). He choreographed for South Korean pop/R&B singer Se7en. In December 2009 he debuted on the comedy collective TheKommune.com, in several sketch-series videos. He has taught dance classes and held workshops all over the world.

In his 40 years Stephen Boss achieved a lot. He brought happiness to so many yet clearly he was struggling with his own issues. The iTwitch we saw on the media was one who celebrated life and that happy persona made his passing even more disconcerting.

Warning signs of suicide

• thinking or talking about suicide

• withdrawal from family, friends or activities

• feeling purposeless

• feeling hopeless regarding the future

• anxiety or significant mood changes, such as anger, sadness or helplessness

• talking about being in unbearable pain or being a burden to others

In pursuit of safe spaces

Societies need more safe spaces for men to be vulnerable. These safe spaces should be available so men can freely and openly discuss their insecurities as well as celebrate their successes without the fear of condemnation. What is needed is a supportive and caring society.

Will we ever arrive at this safe place? Clearly the answer depends on what each of us, as men, is willing to do in order to bring about behavioural change in terms of how we treat each other as men, as well as how the wider society treats us as men. Many of us are afraid that once we share our own insecurities we will be labelled or judged. However, while that may be true in some aspects, we should not allow that to prevent us from seeking assistance.

Our faith in God is truly put to the test in times of difficulty. However, we should always take comfort in the words of God, especially in our valley moments. The psalmist David says in Psalm 34:18. The LORD is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Undoubtedly, stigma and discrimination often accompany mental health issues. The society can be a harsh place. Nonetheless, there is empathy and compassion and, indeed, help available for those who struggle in this area of their life.

We all are passionate about some activity. Personally, doing research and blogging works. Perhaps you enjoy dancing, exercising, listening to music, gardening, and sewing, whatever takes your mind away from the stress of life. It is important that we find that activity which can help to de-stress us.

Help is available

Jamaicans can contact the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health and Suicide Prevention helpline at 888-NEW-LIFE (639-5433) for mental health support. Additionally, one can speak to their primary health care provider or a trusted family member or friend.

There is no health without mental health. Diagnosing depression and seeking treatment can help save lives. Happy new year.

In the words of Robin Williams, if you are that depressed, reach out to someone. And, remember, suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. Send comments to the Jamaica Observer or waykam@yahoo.com, @WayneCamo.