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“[…] In Trinidad and Tobago, non-communicable diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer continue to claim far too many of us men far too early. Mental health struggles often left unspoken, add another layer.
“Statistics show that men are far less likely than women to seek timely medical or psychological care even when something feels wrong. The cost of this is deep and wide because when we as men choose to suffer in silence—our families, workplaces and communities bear the weight…”
The following Letter to the Editor on health challenges faced by Trinidad and Tobago’s men was submitted to Wired868 by Kwasi Cudjoe, a social impact consultant from D’Abadie:
Growing up I witnessed how many men carry silent burdens, be it pressure, pride or pain tucked neatly beneath the surface. Honestly, as a man I’ve walked that road myself and I know how easy it is to treat strength as silence and mistake the ability to seek help as a flaw or weakness.
The truth is, there’s courage in caring for yourself and tending to your health even when the world expects you to keep pushing. This appeal is simply a heartfelt call urging us men to take care of ourselves.
June marked the beginning of Men’s Health Month, a time to spotlight the well-being of our fathers, brothers, sons and friends. However, men’s health goes far beyond aesthetics and isn’t focused on gym bodies and appearances. It encompasses physical, mental, emotional and even spiritual wellness.
At its core, it’s checking in, tuning in and sometimes slowing down. In Trinidad and Tobago, non-communicable diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer continue to claim far too many of us men far too early. Mental health struggles often left unspoken, add another layer.
Statistics show that men are far less likely than women to seek timely medical or psychological care even when something feels wrong. The cost of this is deep and wide because when we as men choose to suffer in silence—our families, workplaces and communities bear the weight.
Amidst the noise of life, let’s keep showing up for ourselves and for each other. Support the brother who’s struggling. While Men’s Health Month was meant to raise awareness, our commitment must stretch beyond June.
So as the curtains close on this month, let us understand that our health doesn’t end with a campaign and neither should our care. Whether you’re a man reading this or someone who cares about one: make the call, schedule the appointment and start the conversation.
(Copyright BET.)
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