'Men still uncomfortable discussing their problems openly'- Hon Vincent O. Wheatley
“This timing provides an excellent opportunity to engage fathers, brothers, sons, and male friends in discussions about their health while emphasising the significance of men’s well-being within the context of family and community,” the Minister said in a statement released on June 12, 2023.
Stigmas not only in VI but worldwide
Hon Wheatley added, “The theme for this year’s observation is ‘Men’s Health and the Internet’. This emphasizes the impact of technology and social media on men’s mental health. We all know that a stigma exists regarding men’s mental health, and unfortunately, some men are still uncomfortable discussing their problems openly.”
He added the stigma is not only in the VI, but worldwide and it is this stigma that causes many individuals to suffer in silence.
“However, in recent years, we have witnessed a significant shift in conversations surrounding mental health. People are now prioritising their mental well-being with the same level of seriousness as their physical health.”
He added that while the topic is changing with more awareness campaigns and observations, there is still a long way to go to help men feel comfortable enough to speak out about their mental health.
Tackling issues before escalation
“Although you might feel embarrassed or uncomfortable talking about your mental health; the bravest thing you can do is tackle the issue before it becomes a problem. Remember, you are not alone. Many others here in the Virgin Islands are experiencing the same emotions and struggling to find ways to cope. Let us create an environment to accommodate them as they speak up,” he added.
The Minister said for Men’s Mental Health Week 2023, there is a need to have the conversations and keep them going, while he encouraged activities like encouraging men to take health checkups, and information sessions, and engage in physical activities.
“Let us embrace Men’s Health Week 2023 as a time to raise awareness, foster open conversations, and empower men to take control of their physical and mental well-being. Together, we can make a difference and inspire a healthier future for all,” he added.
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12 Responses to “'Men still uncomfortable discussing their problems openly'- Hon Vincent O. Wheatley ”
Strong body! Strong mind!
BVI PORTS MAKES THE MOST MONIES AND NO ONE GIVES ACCOUNTS TO WHERE THESES MONIES SEEMS TO BE DISSAPPEARING TO.
Governor Ranking we needs our increments pls
2020 2021 and 2022.
Its long over Due.
BVI Ports brought a whole decastro Building on main street and not even using it why can the people who in patsy building go in the decastro building and work there.
Why are u still paying this woman rent thousands of dollars
Patsy lake came here and ask us couple years ago choose if we want party or increments???
Wickedness and she gone and still collecting. Governor look into this pls. We tires and upset.
They also buy boat for over 400 thousand
Land virgin Gorda that not even using for over 5.5 million.
Paying Patsy Lake a set of money form our hard earn monies. Then coming with stories that they broke. Stop f** in playing around. Mannout here desperate.
Pay us now.
We need our monies. Now.
Maynard gone and so did the financial controller who was handling all theses matters.
Pay the staff we want whats our