Today, on International Men’s Day, we celebrate the men in our lives and recognise the unique challenges they face.
It was created in 1999 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh from Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Teelucksingh chose November 19th for two significant reasons: it marked his father’s birthday, a man who exemplified positive role modelling, and it was the same day in 1989 when Trinidad and Tobago’s national football team united the country, transcending ethnic and gender divisions as they pursued World Cup qualification.
The theme for this year, “Positive Male Role Models,” invites us to consider the crucial contributions men make to their families, communities, and societies. It also highlights the need to foster healthier definitions of masculinity, breaking free from harmful stereotypes that have long been perpetuated. These issues, while often underrepresented, impact men across the globe, including the Caribbean.
The Six Pillars of International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day focuses on six primary objectives, including improving gender relations, promoting men’s health, celebrating positive male role models, and addressing issues like discrimination against men and boys.
A significant component of the day is Movember, during which men grow facial hair to raise awareness and start conversations about men’s health, particularly mental health, suicide prevention, and prostate cancer.
While many women might dismiss the need for a day dedicated to men’s issues, the statistics surrounding men’s struggles cannot be ignored. From mental health crises to issues of gender-based violence, it is clear that men face significant challenges that deserve attention.
The Grim Reality: Disproportionate Struggles for Men
Men, particularly in the Caribbean, face a range of issues that are often overlooked. The statistics for men are stark:
76% of suicides are men, a tragedy that highlights the mental health crisis among men globally. In Trinidad and Tobago, men account for 75% of suicides, with young men particularly vulnerable.
85% of homeless people are men, and 70% of homicide victims are also male, a trend evident across the Caribbean. In fact, the Caribbean Development Bank notes that men are disproportionately affected by violence and crime, making up 70-80% of homicide victims.
Men are also incarcerated at 3.4 times the rate of women, serving 64% longer sentences when convicted of the same crimes. These issues are particularly pronounced in the Caribbean, where systemic issues often disadvantage men, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
Gender Inequality Hurts Everyone
Sexism and harmful gender roles do not just affect women, they harm men as well. In the Caribbean, traditional gender norms often dictate that men must be stoic, unemotional, and dominant. These expectations, coupled with societal pressure to conform to unrealistic standards of masculinity, can have serious consequences for mental health. Men are less likely to seek help for mental health concerns, often bottling up feelings of depression or anxiety until they manifest in harmful behaviours like substance abuse, risky behaviours, or even self-harm.
The concept of toxic masculinity — where strength, power, and emotional suppression are glorified — damages men’s mental well-being, making them more likely to experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. Furthermore, these same expectations discourage men from engaging in supportive relationships, reducing their social networks, and worsening feelings of isolation.
Mental Health in the Caribbean: Breaking the Silence
Mental health challenges among Caribbean men have only recently begun to be acknowledged, with increasing recognition of the need for change. According to PAHO, the Caribbean region has the highest depression rates in Latin America, and men, particularly young men, are often the hardest hit. However, men are less likely to seek help for these issues due to the stigma surrounding mental health.
This silence around mental health can also contribute to substance abuse. In Trinidad and Tobago, substance use among young men has been rising, exacerbated by societal pressures and the lack of sufficient mental health resources. Furthermore, the Caribbean Mental Health Foundation highlights that mental health care access for men remains a significant issue, particularly for those in low-income communities.
Celebrating Positive Male Role Models
One of the core objectives of International Men’s Day is to celebrate positive male role models — those who are breaking the mould and redefining what it means to be a man in the Caribbean. These men serve as examples of kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence, challenging traditional norms and paving the way for future generations.
In the Caribbean, fathers and male figures play critical roles in shaping the identities of young boys. It’s essential that positive role models model emotional expression and self-care, showing that true strength lies in vulnerability and seeking help when needed. These role models can help dismantle harmful stereotypes about men and masculinity, opening up space for healthier and more fulfilling expressions of manhood.
Moving Forward: Equality for All
International Men’s Day is not about diminishing the fight for women’s rights or equality, but about recognising that equality benefits everyone. As we continue to work toward gender equality, it is vital to address issues affecting men, particularly those related to health, mental well-being, and societal expectations. By breaking down harmful stereotypes about masculinity and supporting men in developing healthier emotional outlets and self-care habits, we can create a world where both genders thrive.
As we celebrate International Men’s Day today, let us use this opportunity to reflect on the issues affecting men, especially in the Caribbean, and work together to break down the systems that suppress their emotional health. By supporting men in developing healthier, more balanced ways of living, we can not only create a more equitable world for men but also for women and society as a whole. The work we do today will shape the future for generations to come, fostering a society where both men and women can grow, thrive, and contribute equally.
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We will be hosting an exciting and impactful series for Men’s Wellness Month throughout November. The Men’s Wellness Interview Series 2024 is dedicated to addressing various aspects of men’s health, from physical and emotional well-being to mental resilience and social connection. Experts in their respective fields will share their top tips and insights with you to help you life a healthier, happier life. To register for this exciting free event, click www.audaciousevolution.com/event-list
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