COVID-19 challenges status of men – Morrell
COVID-19 has further compounded the already existing issues that men and boys are going through, says Men Empowerment Network CEO Paul Morrell.
Speaking during an awareness on mental health recently, Mr Morrell said this occurred on different levels.
“Financial — man has lost their jobs and thus their male ego is affected when they are unable to provide for the family. Their status is challenged because of what they have been taught to believe and this affects them tremendously,” he said.
“Then they do not have a platform or people they can share this with.
“The curfews have also caused a lot of issues in this regards; many man are not used to staying home with their families so this becomes an issue.
“The time they use for an outlet; because of curfews, they cannot visit friends and have their usual sessions. Thus, there is no outlet for them, although we do not recommend alcohol or grog as an outlet; but for some it is the only place to ‘numb’ their worries.
“With these restrictions, it becomes bottled up and thus they take it out on their families in a way that they do not know will harm their families or themselves — violence and suicide for some.”
He encouraged man to communicate better with their spouse so that they would be able to work together in times of difficulties and challenges.
He advised men who were having suicidal thoughts not to resort to a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
“If they cannot talk to us or someone, have a journal and pen what they are going through. Read what they have written and discard the paper. Sometimes, if you cannot talk about it, writing it down helps you get it out. “Suicide is never the answer.” He also advised the public to be aware of the changes in the behaviour of men and boys in their family and community.