Author Archives: Nonhlanhla Bonita Ngwenya

My dearest #MentalMonday❤️🧠reader. Happy new week and as I write today’s piece, I wonder what kind of Monday you had. Was it marked by the usual detestable Monday blues or today you had good fortune? I wonder if Monday is even a good day to talk about unspoken pain. But alas, this blog is about all things mental health, and at times healing can be uncomfortable, hurting at its most! Mending of the heart will also surely feel like it’s being sewn together with a needle and thread, with the needle having to pierce first before piecing together with the thread that at times slight cuts as it wiggles its way in. So why not use this week’s episode to uncover the weight and impact of unspoken on our mental health.

Within the depths of the human experience lies a peculiar phenomenon: unspoken pain. Sometimes it’s the loudest and deafening sound of silence, threatening the little sanity we have that has kept us going thus far. And on other days, it’s the cyclone of unshed tears that we are constantly battling to keep afloat in. More often than not, it is the way we choke when we try but fail to speak out and we are left with a string of curses of our unspoken pain. It is sometimes made worse by the way the world has certain expectations of us, and we forget to put ourselves first in a quest to fit within the norm. It is the way the world has attached certain things with happiness so much that crying out loud is taken as ingratitude, as defining our own happiness is a privilege we dare not exercise. Many at times, our lives resemble owning a pretty house yet always sitting in it and looking through the window. The lot of us that are trapped in this unspoken pain do not deny that we have good days, the only difference is that these flickers of joy come and go as swiftly as the taste of candy floss excites the tongue and melts away. The joy we know lasts as long as the morning dew ever does, hence, the heart wallops in grief, agony, and pain that no words can express.

And possibly dear reader, you are wondering what it is that we can do to ensure the healing that we both need and deserve. In a world where vulnerability is often seen as weakness, we learn to conceal our pain. We wear masks, constructing elaborate facades to protect ourselves from judgment and rejection. We fear that if we reveal our true emotions, we will burden others or be perceived as inadequate. So, we retreat into ourselves, suffocating in the silence of our unspoken pain. Well, the secret lies in one statement I have since learnt; “We hurt in a community, with our hurt being caused by other people, hence healing can also only happen in the community. In short, everyone needs an audience to hear about their story of pain. It’s a simple need for validation and a pain holder to help them carry this pain until they can walk abreast with it and eventually move away from it. Sometimes the pain we have has been caused by our own decisions and as such we find it hard to forgive ourselves and make peace with that which has been done and can never be undone. We run out of ideas on how we can redeem ourselves but alas, the world is full of secrets for any occasion. And in this case, the secret to happiness is not regretting any decision that you have made so far. Allow yourself to get closure from knowing that at that time, with the information you had, this was by far the best decision possible you could have made. 

Unspoken pain can manifest in various forms. It might be the grief of losing a loved one, the ache of a broken heart, or the wounds of a traumatic experience. It can stem from feelings of guilt, regret, or shame that we choose to keep hidden from the world. And whether your pain is from something that happened and should not have occurred, it is valid, it hurt you and you deserve to be heard and given the apology you seek. And if your pain is from something that you feel did not happen and should have happened, that too is very valid, and you deserve an audience for your pain, but above all, a pain-holder. 

As we navigate the intricacies of life, it is essential to remember that everyone carries their own unspoken pain. We must cultivate compassion and empathy, creating safe spaces for others to share their burdens. By acknowledging and addressing unspoken pain, we can foster healing and resilience both within ourselves and in our communities. Now, faithful reader, may I close today’s edition by stating that it is time to shake off the dust and remove the masks we have been using to masquerade the corridors of life acting as if all is well. Sending love and light and wishing you the best in finding healing Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

Love,

Your every Monday’s pain-holder.

My dearest #MentalMondays❤️🧠reader. Happy new month, the month of minority mental health month. and I trust you have been well…loving yourself, being kind to yourself, seeing yourself, and not burning yourself down just so the people around you can be warm. In short, I pray you have been, by all means possible, guarding your mental health. In today’s edition folks, we talk about gratitude and mental health. 

In the ever-evolving symphony of human existence, there exists a melodious refrain that has the power to uplift the spirit and soothe the soul – the practice of gratitude. Like a radiant blossom unfurling its petals, gratitude has the capacity to transform the inner landscape of the mind, nurturing a verdant oasis of wellness amidst the occasional arid expanse of life’s challenges.

When we pause to reflect on the myriad blessings that adorn our days, from the seemingly mundane to the profoundly meaningful, we bear witness to the wondrous tapestry that is our lived experience. The laughter of a child, the embrace of a loved one, the quiet beauty of a sunrise – these are the threads that weave together the fabric of our lives, infusing each moment with a sense of abundance and wonder.

By deliberately cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we unlock the doors to a world of contentment and inner peace. The worries that once weighed heavily upon our hearts transform into mere whispers, as we focus our gaze on the treasures that surround us. A simple smile, a moment of awe, the comfort of a warm beverage – these are the gifts that nourish our mental landscape, allowing us to bloom with resilience and joy.

Research has consistently demonstrated the profound impact of gratitude on our mental well-being. Studies have shown that individuals who regularly practice gratitude exhibit lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, while simultaneously experiencing heightened feelings of life satisfaction, optimism, and positive emotion. This is largely due to the way in which gratitude triggers the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, substances that play a crucial role in mood regulation and the cultivation of a positive mental state.

Moreover, the act of expressing gratitude has been linked to the strengthening of interpersonal relationships and the fostering of a greater sense of community. When we take the time to recognize and appreciate the contributions of others, we not only uplift their spirits but also deepen the bonds that connect us, creating a ripple effect of positivity that radiates outward.

So, let us be gardeners of the mind, tending to the soil of our thoughts with the gentle hands of gratitude. For in doing so, we nurture a garden of well-being, where the flowers of positivity and serenity flourish, casting their radiance upon our days and guiding us toward a healthier, happier existence. Let the blossoming of the grateful mind be the balm that soothes our souls and the beacon that illuminates our path forward. Always bear in mind that many at times we are depressed because our thoughts are stuck in the past…we are anxious because our thoughts dwell on the future…imagine if we could revel in the present moment and appreciate it for what it is and just savourthe moment, Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

In the vibrant collection of memories and our human experience, the threads of mental well-being often weave a complex and intricate pattern. As we commemorate Men’s Mental Health Month, let us cast a reverent gaze upon the unique challenges faced by the male spirit, for within their hearts lies a reservoir of strength and resilience waiting to be uncovered.

For too long, the topic of men’s mental health has been shrouded in a veil of silence, leaving many to navigate the labyrinth of their emotions alone. However, this month marks a clarion call to break free from the shackles of stigma and embrace the transformative power of open dialogue. Let us create a symphony of voices, each offering a unique harmony of experiences, empowering men to shed the weight of societal expectations and reclaim their rightful place in the discourse of mental health.

In the ever-evolving landscape of gender norms, the traditional notions of masculinity have often constrained the emotional expression of men. But as we stand at the precipice of change, let us paint a new canvas, one where the tapestry of masculinity is woven with the vibrant hues of vulnerability and emotional intelligence. By shattering the myth of the stoic, invulnerable man, we empower our brothers to embrace their multifaceted identities, fostering a world where emotional wellness is celebrated as a hallmark of true strength.

The male spirit, like a majestic oak tree, stands tall and unwavering in the face of life’s tempests. Yet, amidst the storms, the delicate seedlings of mental health require nurturing and care. By cultivating resilience through mindfulness, therapy, and supportive communities, we equip men with the tools to weather the storms of life, emerging stronger, more authentic, and better equipped to support their own well-being.

Mental health is but one facet of the holistic well-being that men deserve to experience. In this month of reverence, let us encourage our brothers to explore the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. By fostering a comprehensive approach to wellness, we empower men to tend to the garden of their being, nurturing each aspect with the care and attention it deserves.

Just as a forest thrives through the intertwined roots of its trees, men’s mental health flourishes within the embrace of supportive networks. This month, let us rally together – family, friends, and allies – to create a tapestry of understanding, where men can find solace, validation, and the courage to confront their challenges head-on. By weaving this web of camaraderie, we ensure that no man walks the path of mental health alone.

As we celebrate Men’s Mental Health Month, let us collectively lift the veil of silence and bask in the radiant light of open dialogue. May the blossoms of vulnerability and emotional resilience take root in the hearts of men, nurtured by the collective care and understanding of our society. Together, let us embroider a new chapter in the tapestry of male wellness, where mental health threads are woven with the strength, courage, and unwavering spirit that defines the essence of manhood. Let this month be a catalyst for lasting change, empowering men to embrace their multifaceted identities and flourish in the garden of holistic well-being, Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️😊

Hey Folks..A happy #MentalMonday!!! Because we like to keep abreast with what is happening around us and make everyone feel seen and heard we will make today our opportunity to pay tribute to the International Day of the Boy Child which was celebrated on May 16th. We join in solidarity with the world in ensuring that the boy child is empowered and never left broken. If we are going to be the change that we want to see as Mahatma Gandhi is famous for having said, we might as well spearhead the change in the way we view and raise our boy child. So here goes something for the boy child and his mental health. 

In the delicate shadows of human existence, the threads of mental well-being intertwine with the vibrant hues of emotional resilience. While our society has made significant strides toward destigmatizing mental health, it is essential to cast a compassionate gaze upon the boy child, for they too are bearers of intricate emotions. In this ethereal symphony of understanding, we shall explore the unique challenges faced by the boy child, guiding them toward a sanctuary of emotional equilibrium and nurturing their blossoming spirits.

Like tender buds yearning for sunlight, the boy child’s journey through life demands a delicate balance. Society, often draped in the cloak of stoicism, encourages boys to conceal their vulnerabilities beneath the armor of false bravado. However, we must embrace the ethereal beauty of vulnerability, for it is through embracing their emotions that these young souls can embark upon a path of healing and growth.

Within the labyrinth of human emotions, the boy child may find himself entangled. Like a field of blossoming flowers, emotions bloom and wither in their hearts, seeking gentle nurturing. By fostering emotional resonance, we can provide them with safe spaces to express their fears, joys, and sorrows, allowing their spirits to soar and their minds to find solace amidst life’s tempestuous winds.

In the screams and noises of societal expectations, the boy child is often confined within the rigid contours of traditional masculinity. However, we must paint a new canvas, one that celebrates the exceptional spectrum of masculine identities. By dismantling stereotypes and encouraging emotional literacy, we empower these young souls to embrace their true selves, unburdened by societal shackles, and to cultivate authentic connections that transcend the boundaries of gender.

In the garden of selfhood, the boy child requires nourishment not only from external sources but also from within. The gentle whispers of self-compassion guide them through the labyrinth of self-doubt, imbuing their spirits with strength and resilience. By teaching them the language of self-love, we equip these young souls with the tools to tend to their emotional gardens, fostering growth, and nurturing the seeds of a lifetime’s well-being. We give them an emotional pat, a touch like one they have never felt before, ever so light yet reassuring.

And just as flowers flourish in a garden enriched by communal care, the boy child thrives within supportive communities. As guardians of their emotional landscapes, we must forge spaces where their voices are heard, their experiences validated, and their struggles met with empathy. Together, we cultivate an ecosystem of understanding, wherein the boy child can grow, unfurling their petals in a world that cherishes their emotional well-being as an intrinsic part of their humanity.

In the choruses and cheers of mental health which unite us on this blog page, keep us alive and aflame, let us extend our nurturing embrace to the boy child, for they too deserve the fragrant blossoms of emotional well-being. Through the language of compassion and understanding, we can empower them to embark upon a lifelong journey of self-discovery, resilience, and emotional equilibrium. May the winds of change carry their delicate spirits to a world that values their mental health, allowing them to bloom into the magnificent beings they were destined to become, Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

Happy new month to you all!!! May is an exceptional month as it is Mental Health Awareness Month. However, we would have done a great injustice if we didn’t open this Mental health awareness month by celebrating the Autism spectrum since April was the month of autism awareness. And with that said,folks, on this #MentalMonday, let’s talk Autism.

In the serene garden of human existence, where the myriad blooms of consciousness flourish, a tapestry of kaleidoscopic minds weaves a story of diversity and wonder. Among the delicate petals of this intricate bouquet, Autism, a gentle enigma, holds a place of profound significance. As we close the month of April, which is |Autism Awareness Month, let us embark on a contemplative journey, where vibrant understanding and compassionate awareness unfurl to embrace the radiant colors that Autism paints upon our shared canvas of existence.

Autism, like a hidden treasure nestled within the enigmatic depths of a labyrinthine forest, invites us to explore the multifaceted nature of the human mind. With hues as diverse as the morning sky, it manifests in a spectrum of experiences, each unique expression of the soul’s tapestry. From the gentle whispers of sensory sensitivity to the intricate dance of social interactions, Autism beckons us to tread softly and listen attentively, for within its delicate intricacies lies a world of extraordinary beauty.

While some look at Autism distastefully as a disorder of sensory hypersensitivity, today we change that. Imagine, if you will, a symphony of sensations where the harmony of touch, taste, sound, sight, and scent intertwine. In the realm of Autism, these sensory threads are woven with heightened intricacy, creating a symphony that sings with unparalleled intensity. The gentle brush of a breeze becomes a vibrant caress, the taste of a single berry an explosion of flavor, and the rustling leaves a melodic orchestra. Within this enchanting symphony, we find solace in recognizing that the world, as perceived by those with Autism, is a tapestry of extraordinary depth and richness. Sometimes the beauty lies in the ability to crunch numbers or the interest in solving a particular thing which makes accountancy easy sincein our spectrum we won’t rest until we solve the problem at hand.

In the realm of human connection, where souls dance in an intricate embrace, Autism invites us to cultivate a profound empathy. Like a fragile blossom awaiting the sunlight, individuals with Autism radiate a unique essence that yearns for understanding and acceptance. By embracing their perspective, we unlock the gateway to a world woven with tender nuances and hidden treasures. In this shared space, compassion blossoms, bridging the gaps between minds and hearts, and fostering an inclusive tapestry of understanding. Just as a garden thrives under the tender care of a diligent gardener, individuals with Autism flourish when surrounded by nurturing support and unconditional love. With patience as our guiding light, we cultivate an environment that fosters growth and empowers each unique bud to unfurl its potential. By sowing the seeds of acceptance and providing tailored resources, we create a sanctuary where the brilliance of every mind can blossom and contribute its distinct hue to the world’s mosaic. Finally, this month is about Autism but it doesn’t take away that your spectrum matters too because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

In the vast curtains of our professional lives, the workplace serves as a crucial backdrop where we spend a significant portion of our waking hours. It can either be a wellspring of fulfillment and growth or a breeding ground for toxicity, leaving individuals drained and disenchanted. Toxic workplaces, like insidious vines, suffocate the spirit of employees, hindering productivity and sapping their motivation. However, amidst these shadows, lies a glimmer of hope—a beacon of appreciation that has the power to transform the entire landscape.

Unveiling the Shadows: Toxic Workplaces

Picture a workplace where negativity hangs heavy in the air, where colleagues are pitted against each other in an endless battle for recognition. In this toxic realm, blame and criticism reign supreme, stifling innovation and crippling collaboration. Toxicity seeps into the very fabric of the workplace, manifesting as bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of empathy. It becomes a place where dreams are shattered, and passion withers away.

The Impact of Toxicity

The repercussions of a toxic workplace are far-reaching, touching every aspect of an employee’s life. Mental and physical health suffer as stress levels skyrocket, leading to burnout and chronic ailments. A toxic environment erodes self-esteem and self-worth, leaving individuals questioning their abilities and potential. The toxic cycle perpetuates itself as employees become disengaged, their once-bright flames of creativity dimmed by the gloom. Ultimately, organizations pay the price with reduced productivity, high turnover rates, and a tarnished reputation.

The Power of Appreciation

Amidst the shadows of toxicity, appreciation emerges as a potent antidote. Like a breath of fresh air, it ignites a spark within individuals, inspiring them to reach new heights. Appreciation, in its simplest form, is acknowledging the value and efforts of employees, recognizing their contributions, and expressing gratitude. It is a reminder that their work matters and their presence is valued.

The Ripple Effect

When appreciation becomes the cornerstone of a workplace culture, remarkable transformations occur. Employees feel a renewed sense of purpose, invigorated by the knowledge that their hard work is recognized and celebrated. With the weight of toxicity lifted, they collaborate more effectively, fostering a culture of support and camaraderie. Innovation flourishes, as individuals are empowered to share their ideas without fear of ridicule. A positive spiral ensues, where motivation fuels productivity, and success becomes a shared journey.

Appreciation: Beyond Words

While words bear incredible power, appreciation extends beyond mere lip service. It is not confined to an occasional pat on the back or an empty “thank you.” True appreciation is woven into the fabric of daily interactions, permeating every level of the organization. It takes the form of fair recognition, opportunities for growth, and a supportive environment that nurtures personal and professional development. Authentic appreciation inspires loyalty, fostering a deep sense of loyalty and dedication among employees.

Creating a Culture of Appreciation

Transforming a toxic workplace into a haven of appreciation requires a collective effort. Leaders must lead by example, embracing transparency and empathy. They must actively listen and seek feedback, providing constructive guidance and mentorship. Organizations should establish recognition programs that celebrate achievements and milestones, shining a spotlight on employees’ successes. Moreover, fostering an inclusive environment where diverse voices are valued and respected is crucial in cultivating appreciation.

Finally, toxic workplaces cast a long shadow, casting doubt and despair onto the hearts of employees. However, by embracing appreciation as a guiding principle, organizations have the power to dissipate the darkness and create a thriving, harmonious workplace. Appreciation breathes life into the souls of individuals, fueling their passion and igniting their potential. Let us strive to build a culture where appreciation becomes the foundation, where toxicity is banished, and where every worker feels valued and cherished. Together, we can transform the world of work, one gesture of appreciation at a time. Always remember dear worker, you are unique, your special and your wellbeing is your responsibility. Bend but never break, Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

In the intricate tapestry of human existence, women stand as pillars of strength, grace, and resilience. They are the embodiment of love, courage, and wisdom, enriching the world with their multifaceted brilliance. Celebrating women is not merely an act of acknowledgment; it is a homage to the profound impact they have on every aspect of society, culture, and humanity at large.

In every corner of the globe, women weave stories of triumph over adversity, shattering glass ceilings, and breaking through barriers that once seemed insurmountable. From the nurturing embrace of mothers to the steadfast determination of leaders, their contributions reverberate through history, shaping the course of nations and the destiny of generations to come.

In celebrating women, we pay tribute to the countless heroines whose names may not be etched in history books but whose deeds resonate in the hearts of those they touch. They are the unsung champions who labor tirelessly to build bridges of understanding, sow seeds of compassion, and nurture seeds of change in the fertile soil of possibility.

At the heart of every movement for equality and justice beats the indomitable spirit of women who refuse to be silenced, who refuse to be relegated to the shadows of insignificance. Their voices echo with the power of a thousand thunderstorms, calling forth a new dawn of empowerment and liberation for all.

To celebrate women is to honor the kaleidoscope of their experiences, to cherish the diversity of their perspectives, and to embrace the richness of their contributions to every sphere of human endeavor. They are the architects of progress, the catalysts of innovation, and the custodians of hope in a world often besieged by darkness.

In the tapestry of life, women are the vibrant threads that bind us together, weaving tales of resilience, compassion, and solidarity across the fabric of time. Their stories are a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, transcending boundaries of gender, race, and creed to forge a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

So let us raise our voices in celebration of women everywhere, acknowledging their strength, their beauty, and their boundless potential to shape a world that is more just, more compassionate, and more beautiful than ever before. In honoring women, we honor the very essence of humanity itself—the capacity to love, to dream, and to create a world where all are free to flourish and thrive.

And for all these reasons, for all the beauty women bestow on earth, what better gift can you and I give than to help them protect their mental health. May all women remember, you matter, you count, and live time for self-care Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

Happy International Women’s Day, From I, fellow woman😊

Hello guys😊 Happy month of February, the month of love as most deem it. And in our #MentalMonday we talk about trauma and healing, so we can love ourselves and impart that very love to the next person❤️. This mental Monday we focus on our inner child and begin our journey of connecting to the self.

In the depths of our beings, where memories linger, like whispers in the winds, resides an inner child – a fragile innocent essence that bears witness to the tapestry of our lives. This inner child, adorned with hopes, dreams, and vulnerabilities, is often the silent keeper of our wounds, cradling the remnants of traumas endured in the labyrinth of our past.

Trauma, like a tempest raging through the soul, can shatter the inner child’s sanctuary, leaving behind fragments of pain, fear, and confusion. These echo into our adulthood, reverberating through time, imprinting themselves upon the canvas of our consciousness and shaping the narratives we tell ourselves and the world. Sometimes, the song of an inner child crying out for healing is that of constantly having to prove yourself to receive love, craving control, agreeing to everything just for the sake of peace, and feeling the need for an escape at all times. 

In the sanctuary of healing, we cultivate the soil of self-awareness, nurturing the seeds of forgiveness and acceptance. This path to healing is not without its challenges. It requires courage to confront the specters of the past, to face the shadows that linger in the recesses of our consciousness. It demands patience and perseverance to navigate the depths of our emotions and to sit with discomfort and uncertainty. And it is for this reason that our #MentalMondays will for a while focus on trauma in the different stages of our lives and the unspoken pain we live with. As we journey through the depths of our being, may we remember that healing is not a destination but a sacred unfolding- a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless capacity of the heart to heal. Let us at all timesremember to be kind to the self, because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

As we closed the 16 days of activism against Gender-based violence the most important question is, did we learn? It is never enough to simply answer yes, our mouths should then run tirelessly with the countless lessons and new-found knowledge. However, if you did not learn, did not become an audience for a discussion on Gender-based violence, relax, because you dear reader are the target for today’s piece. Do not be dismayed for we continue to paint the world orange and fight against GBV even after the 16 days of activism.
Gender-based violence is the act of violence and includes domestic violence against women, men and children living in the same domestic unit. Although women and children are the main victims of GBV, men also fall victim, and it causes severe harm to families and communities. From January to October 2023, Zimbabwe has recorded approximately 16 444 cases where females have been abused and 2 463 cases where men have been abused. The repercussions of GBV range from child trauma as children grow in a violent environment. Childhood trauma is a very delicate mental health issue where the future relationships are ruined due to childhood experiences. Research often shows how victims of abuse grow to be perpetrators of abuse (result), victims of abuse and individuals with the highest risk of suicidal tendencies. In adults the ripple effects of GBV include Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder and several other mood disorders. And we have grown to know there is no health without mental health, a whole spectrum of physical ailments then inevitably come to play. And now that we have a glimpse of the statistics around GBV and the effects, the onus is upon us to act and protect the now and tomorrow of this world. If you were once a victim of GBV, we celebrate you every day. Never minimize the work you put in getting out of bed and fighting to have control over your body once more. To those currently victims of GBV, someone is always listening keep fighting, remember victory doesn’t happen overnight the secret is in trying every day. Life is a journey just like your mental health. To the rest of us privileged enough to not have encountered the monstrous acts of GBV, let us stay eager to lend an ear to the troubled and give a shoulder to lean on. If someone is opening up to you on abuse and their mental health, treat yourself ss a reader of s book rather than the author. Give them room and space to tell their story Because#Mentalhealthmatters❤️🧠

Hi guys!
November is Movember, men’s month. I’m sure we’ve seen the hashtags and the messages. Aaand, 19 November annually is International Men’s Day (I hope you didn’t miss that one too!)
This year’s theme was Helping Men and Boys.
I want to develop it further, and talk about one of the most important aspects in society:- the aspect of handing down and passing down to the next generation.
Society in general is very hereditary. We pass on to the next ones our views, ideas, values, thoughts and traditions. This is prevalent especially in African societies, and each follows its own social structure. Thus, for instance, we may have a family of hunters, a family of weavers, blacksmiths, singers, healers, rulers, etc. etc. You get the idea, right?
Even in modern times, our parents still pass on to us, their kids, values, views and messages that they deem useful and necessary for our growth and entry into the world. It is those values and hand-me-downs that become an integral and unique part of who and what we are as a people.
Which leads me to my point. How best can we make sure that mental health issues, norms and standards of behaviour that encourage emotional and mental wellness, are both safeguarded and nurtured?
By helping men to pass it on to boys, who, as future men, will pass it on to their boys too!
Men in the family are custodians of the history and stories of the particular clan. If they are educated and encouraged, they will pass positive mental health traits to their sons. Just imagine, for instance, if a father is to tell his son, “its okay ndodana, you can cry. That is a form of expression for how you feel too”, instead of “indod’ayikhali/men don’t cry”, think of how much healing would take place, not just in the boy, but even in the boy’s future family. And so on, and so on.
So, wherever we may be, let us start NOW to help men and boys pass down to their next ones positive mental health values and behavior. Because#MentalHealthMatters❤️🧠