Opposition Spokesperson on gender, the elderly, and persons with disability, Denise Daley, wants greater attention to be paid to men’s mental health.

“As we conclude Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we must also confront another silent crisis unfolding across our country. Too many of our men are suffering quietly. Too many continue to battle depression, anxiety, substance abuse and emotional distress without ever seeking help,” Daley said.

She was speaking Tuesday during her contribution to the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

She told the Parliament that “If we want healthier families, we need healthier men. If we want safer communities, we need emotionally healthier boys who grow into emotionally healthy fathers, husbands, brothers, and leaders”.

It is for this reason that the Opposition Member of Parliament for St Catherine Eastern said we must expand access to mental health services, strengthen community-based counselling, encourage mentorship programmes and continue breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

“Supporting boys does not lessen our commitment to girls. Supporting girls does not lessen our commitment to boys. A truly equal society leaves no one behind,” she remarked.

According to Daley, “That is why gender-responsive budgeting remains so important. Public resources should reflect the different realities experienced by women, men, girls and boys. Investment in mental health, violence prevention, educational support, parenting initiatives, public awareness campaigns and services for survivors should not be viewed as expenses; they are investments in national development”.

She insisted that prevention must become our priority.

“Because prevention will always cost less than tragedy. Education will always cost less than violence. And dignity will always be the foundation of a stronger Jamaica,” Daley said.

-Lynford Simpson