MENTAL, neurological, and substance use (MNSS) disorders represent one of the most serious yet overlooked public health challenges facing Jamaican males today.

According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), these conditions account for over 25 per cent of the total disease burden among individuals aged 10 to 40, making them the leading health concern during this critical stage of life. For boys between ages 5 and 15, issues such as conduct disorders, anxiety, and even headaches each make up around 17 per cent of this burden. As they transition into adulthood, many young men face growing struggles with anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance use, and more severe mental illnesses — often in silence.

This year, as Jamaica observes Child Month under the theme of nurturing every child’s potential, May 16 — International Day of the Boy Child — offers a timely reminder that our boys need more than encouragement to succeed; they need safe spaces to heal and the freedom to feel. Too many are raised to believe that they must “hold up dem stress” without showing any sign of weakness. This harmful belief system silences boys, discourages emotional expression, and delays help-seeking when it’s most needed.

Several factors contribute to this culture of silence: the stigma surrounding mental health, fear of embarrassment, bullying, and exposure to violence — all of which increase the risk of psychological distress and suicide among adolescent boys. But if we are to truly support our boys, we must challenge these narratives and replace them with a culture of care.

Mental health must be treated with the same urgency as physical health. Asking for help is not weakness, it is courage. Parents, teachers, and community leaders all have a role to play. We must encourage boys to speak openly, seek support, and equip them with the tools to manage stress and build resilience. Schools should integrate mental health education, and mentorship programmes can connect boys with role models who lead with empathy and strength.

We cannot change what we are unwilling to confront. Boys and young men in Jamaica must be equipped with the tools to care for their emotional health — because mental strength isn’t about hiding your pain, it’s about knowing how to heal. They should be encouraged to:

• Talk about their feelings — Whether it’s with a friend, teacher, family member, or counsellor, sharing your thoughts can be a powerful release. Silence fuels suffering; speaking up is the first step to feeling better.

• Practice deep breathing and relaxation — When stress builds, slow, deep breaths and guided relaxation can calm both body and mind. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.

• Engage in physical activity — Movement is medicine. Sports, dancing, walking, or working out all release feel-good chemicals that boost mood and relieve tension.

• Journal their thoughts — Writing down how you feel helps you understand your emotions and recognise patterns. It’s a private space where you can be honest with yourself.

• Develop healthy coping skills — Channel your energy into positive outlets like music, art, nature walks, or creative hobbies. Avoid harmful behaviour, like fighting, substance use, or shutting down.

• Limit social media and negative influences — Take breaks from toxic content and seek out people and pages that uplift, motivate, and reflect real life, not false perfection.

• Get enough sleep and eat well — Your mind and mood are deeply affected by rest and nutrition. Respect your body, and it will help protect your mental health.

• Seek professional help when needed — Seeing a counsellor or psychologist isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a smart step towards healing. If you’re feeling constantly sad, anxious, or overwhelmed, don’t wait. Reach out.

As we mark International Day of the Boy Child, let us remember that investing in our boys’ mental health is not optional, it is urgent. Boys are not made of stone. They cry. They hurt. They feel. And they deserve the same empathy, understanding, and access to support that we offer to others.

Let us commit — parents, teachers, churches, policymakers, mentors, and peers — to breaking the cycle of silence. Let’s teach our boys that their feelings are valid, that help is available, and that true strength lies in seeking support when it’s needed.

When boys are empowered to speak, to feel, and to heal, we are not just building stronger men, we are building a stronger Jamaica.

Tamika Powell is a counselling psychology student and mental health advocate. Send comments to tamikap015@gmail.com.