In a powerful call to action, Dr. Margaret Nakhid-Chatoor, a psychologist and educator, addresses the silent struggles of men in Trinidad and Tobago and beyond. For generations, men have been conditioned to ‘man up,’ to shoulder familial responsibilities, and to mask their vulnerabilities. This societal expectation, while intended to foster resilience, has instead perpetuated a culture of silence, leaving many men to grapple with mental health issues alone.
Movember, an initiative that began in Australia in 2003, serves as a catalyst for change. What started as a playful act of growing moustaches in November has evolved into a global movement aimed at transforming men’s health. The moustache is more than a symbol; it’s a conversation starter, a way to break the silence surrounding prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. When someone asks, ‘Why the moustache?’, it opens the door to discussions about health, struggles, and the weight of unspoken pain.
In Trinidad and Tobago, the pressure to remain stoic in the face of unemployment, relationship breakdowns, and loneliness has driven many men to the brink of despair. Rising male suicide rates underscore the urgent need for open dialogue. One young man shared his harrowing experience with anxiety and depression, describing it as a ‘demon inside his head.’ His story is not unique; it reflects the silent battles countless men face daily.
Dr. Nakhid-Chatoor emphasizes that true strength lies not in enduring suffering in silence but in the courage to seek help. ‘Strength is about how much courage it takes to let go of the mask you put on and say, ‘I need help,’’ she writes. Acknowledging pain and vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but an act of bravery. Informal, peer-led spaces, such as gatherings with friends, can be more effective than clinical settings in fostering connection and support.
The message is clear: no one should fight their battles alone. Movember serves as a reminder that every life matters, every voice deserves to be heard, and every pain deserves acknowledgment. Reaching out to men means meeting them where they are—whether in social settings, on the field, or in faith spaces—and reframing mental health as a source of strength and resilience. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, and grounding exercises can help manage anxiety and stress, making mental fitness a more acceptable concept.
Dr. Nakhid-Chatoor concludes with a heartfelt plea: ‘The mask of silence has cost too many lives. It’s time to unmask. Take care.’