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By Priscilla Mafa
As Men’s Health Month is observed this June, stakeholders are intensifying calls for men to prioritize both their physical and mental well-being, with Midlands State University (MSU) and mental health practitioners emphasizing the importance of seeking help and embracing healthy lifestyles.
Midlands State University Counsellor Munyira from the Counselling Services Department at the Zvishavane Campus has urged men to seek professional help whenever they experience emotional or psychological challenges.
In an interview with MSU Radio, Counsellor Munyira stressed that mental health should not be viewed as an issue affecting only one gender.
“Mental health is not a men's issue or a women's issue. It is a human issue that affects everyone. Men should not hesitate to seek assistance from professionals when they are struggling because help is available,” he said.
He also warned against suicide, emphasizing that it is never the answer to life's challenges.
“Suicide is not an option. Whatever difficulties people may be facing, there are professionals, family members, friends, and community support systems that can provide support and guidance,” he said.
He further encouraged families and communities to create supportive environments where men feel comfortable discussing their challenges without fear of judgment.
The call echoes sentiments raised by Friendship Bench Clinical Coordinator Leroy Shonhiwa, who says many men continue to suffer in silence due to societal expectations that discourage them from expressing vulnerability or seeking help.
Speaking to MSU Radio, Shonhiwa noted that harmful stereotypes surrounding masculinity have contributed to a culture where men are expected to appear strong at all times, even when struggling emotionally.
“Many men have been conditioned to believe that showing emotion is a sign of weakness. As a result, they often internalize their problems instead of seeking assistance. This can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts,” said Shonhiwa.
He encouraged men to make use of available mental health services and support systems, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness.
“Talking about your challenges does not make you less of a man. It is important for men to know that help is available and that they do not have to face their struggles alone,” he said.
Shonhiwa also cautioned against viewing suicide as a solution to life's difficulties, stressing that every challenge can be addressed through appropriate support and intervention.
“Suicide is a permanent solution to temporary problems. There are professionals, family members, friends, and community support structures that can help individuals navigate difficult periods in their lives,” he added.
Mental health experts continue to advocate for greater awareness and open conversations around men's mental health, particularly as cases of depression, stress-related illnesses, and suicide remain a concern globally.
Men’s Health Month is observed annually to raise awareness about preventable health issues and encourage early detection and treatment of diseases affecting men and boys.
Meanwhile, Midlands State University Department of Health Services hosted a Wellness Clinic for staff members at the Zvishavane Campus as part of ongoing efforts to promote healthy living and encourage the early detection of non-communicable diseases.
Held under the theme "Campus Care: Your Health Matters," the initiative offered a range of free health screening and awareness services including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, body mass index assessments, health counselling, and lifestyle education.
The wellness programme forms part of the university’s broader commitment to creating a healthy and productive working environment while promoting a culture of preventive healthcare within the institution.
Midlands State University Counsellor Munyira from the Counselling Services Department at the Zvishavane Campus has urged men to seek professional help whenever they experience emotional or psychological challenges.
In an interview with MSU Radio, Counsellor Munyira stressed that mental health should not be viewed as an issue affecting only one gender.
“Mental health is not a men's issue or a women's issue. It is a human issue that affects everyone. Men should not hesitate to seek assistance from professionals when they are struggling because help is available,” he said.
He also warned against suicide, emphasizing that it is never the answer to life's challenges.
“Suicide is not an option. Whatever difficulties people may be facing, there are professionals, family members, friends, and community support systems that can provide support and guidance,” he said.
He further encouraged families and communities to create supportive environments where men feel comfortable discussing their challenges without fear of judgment.
The call echoes sentiments raised by Friendship Bench Clinical Coordinator Leroy Shonhiwa, who says many men continue to suffer in silence due to societal expectations that discourage them from expressing vulnerability or seeking help.
Speaking to MSU Radio, Shonhiwa noted that harmful stereotypes surrounding masculinity have contributed to a culture where men are expected to appear strong at all times, even when struggling emotionally.
“Many men have been conditioned to believe that showing emotion is a sign of weakness. As a result, they often internalize their problems instead of seeking assistance. This can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts,” said Shonhiwa.
He encouraged men to make use of available mental health services and support systems, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness.
“Talking about your challenges does not make you less of a man. It is important for men to know that help is available and that they do not have to face their struggles alone,” he said.
Shonhiwa also cautioned against viewing suicide as a solution to life's difficulties, stressing that every challenge can be addressed through appropriate support and intervention.
“Suicide is a permanent solution to temporary problems. There are professionals, family members, friends, and community support structures that can help individuals navigate difficult periods in their lives,” he added.
Mental health experts continue to advocate for greater awareness and open conversations around men's mental health, particularly as cases of depression, stress-related illnesses, and suicide remain a concern globally.
Men’s Health Month is observed annually to raise awareness about preventable health issues and encourage early detection and treatment of diseases affecting men and boys.
Meanwhile, Midlands State University Department of Health Services hosted a Wellness Clinic for staff members at the Zvishavane Campus as part of ongoing efforts to promote healthy living and encourage the early detection of non-communicable diseases.
Held under the theme "Campus Care: Your Health Matters," the initiative offered a range of free health screening and awareness services including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, body mass index assessments, health counselling, and lifestyle education.
The wellness programme forms part of the university’s broader commitment to creating a healthy and productive working environment while promoting a culture of preventive healthcare within the institution.
Published
June 9, 2026 at 8:00 AM
