By: David Akiri

As June Men's Mental Health Awareness Month came to a close, the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) today hosted an insightful mental health awareness session focusing on Men's Mental Health and Healthy Masculinity. Organized by the Human Resource Department in partnership with the Guidance and Counselling Department, the engagement brought together staff members from various departments to discuss the importance of mental well-being, healthy masculinity, and creating supportive workplace environments.

The session was facilitated by Dr. Soud Alli Tengah, Head of the Guidance and Counselling Department, who led participants through an interactive discussion on the concept of healthy masculinity and its role in promoting personal well-being, healthy relationships, and a productive work environment.

Addressing the participants, Dr Soud emphasized that masculinity should not be defined solely by physical strength or the ability to endure hardship in silence. He noted that truly strong men are emotionally resilient, supportive, accountable, and capable of seeking help when faced with challenges.

"Healthy masculinity is about understanding ourselves, managing pressure positively, and creating space for vulnerability without fear of judgment," he observed.

The discussion explored how cultural expectations and societal pressures often shape men's perceptions of strength, sometimes discouraging them from expressing emotions or seeking support. Dr Soud encouraged participants to challenge stereotypes that label certain emotions as signs of weakness, stressing that emotional awareness and openness are critical components of mental wellness.

A key highlight of the session was the comparison between healthy and unhealthy masculinity, examining how men respond to pressure, authority, power, and vulnerability. Participants were encouraged to embrace positive values such as empathy, responsibility, respect, and emotional intelligence while rejecting harmful behaviours that may negatively affect their mental health and relationships.

Dr Soud further underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, noting that proper nutrition, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and self-care play a significant role in supporting men's mental and emotional well-being.

The session also introduced the concept of the Intergenerational Audit, a reflective exercise that challenged participants to examine lessons inherited from their fathers and previous generations. Staff members were encouraged to identify positive values worth preserving while also considering harmful cycles and behaviours they would wish to break for future generations.

The interactive nature of the engagement allowed participants to openly share experiences and perspectives on societal expectations placed on men. The discussions highlighted the need for supportive workplaces where employees feel safe to express concerns, seek guidance, and prioritize their mental health without stigma.

Speaking after the session, participants described the engagement as timely, thought-provoking, and impactful. They noted that the discussion helped broaden their understanding of men's mental health while providing practical insights on building healthier personal and professional lives.

The Human Resource Department, in collaboration with the Guidance and Counselling Department, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting staff wellness through regular sensitization programmes that equip employees with knowledge and practical skills to maintain positive mental health, strengthen workplace relationships, and enhance overall productivity.