News: To commemorate International Men’s Day, the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) celebrated men’s resilience and positive contributions by hosting an in-house well-being session for male colleagues.
In this unique gathering, CCSI acknowledged the efforts of our colleagues who serve as fathers, brothers, friends, and mentors, shaping societies, communities, families, unions, marriages, and nations.
While honoring men, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health. Pursuing success should not come at the expense of well-being. Dr. Matthew Okoh, Director of Public Health Research at Breakthrough Action Nigeria, urged men to prioritize their mental health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, meaningful relationships, seeking professional help, and ensuring adequate sleep.
He stated, “Men are often expected to endure pain, hardship, and various stresses without expressing their feelings. Little wonder men are four times as likely to commit suicide compared to women. It is essential to pay attention to men’s mental health.
“Some practices to reduce mental issues include regular exercise and physical activities, which improve mental health by reducing stress and boosting mood. Eating a balanced diet provides the brain with the necessary nutrients for optimal function. Cultivating meaningful relationships with friends and family helps build social connections, allowing you to share your thoughts and feelings.
“Additionally, seeking professional health help occasionally is not a sign of weakness, and regularly getting adequate amounts of sleep each night is crucial for mental well-being.
“Lastly, taking care of your mental health is a journey and not a destination. Incorporating these practices into your life is an investment toward embracing a healthier and more mindful version of masculinity.”
Francis Omonoju, a pharmacist, trainer, and advocate for men’s mental health, urged men to create time to run regular health checks, exercise frequently, and manage pressures from work and family. He also encouraged men to invest in themselves and businesses, noting that it is better to make investment mistakes early, rather than spending all of ones retirement money on a failed businesses. “Men can always reinvent themselves with conscious dedication to learning and self-improvement. It helps a great deal to have someone that you are accountable to. This puts you in check, and help you evaluate your actions. Ultimately, men must always take care of their mental health,” he said.
The aim of the session was to foster an environment for open conversations for a healthier tomorrow. Amid societal expectations, we acknowledge the unique challenges men face, urging a focus on mental health.
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About Us
The Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) is a leading Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) organization with expertise in utilizing evidence from research to implement effective strategies that address barriers preventing designated audiences from adopting recommended behaviors.
Birthed by the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (JHCCP), Baltimore, USA, and registered in 2001 as a Non-Governmental Organization with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria, CCSI continues to work towards being the center of excellence in strategic communications in Africa.
Driven by values of integrity, passion, care, innovation, and excellence, CCSI focuses on the central role of strategic communication to impact behaviors, build brands, and provide technical leadership in health and social development.