A Nigerian sports doctor has called for increased awareness of mental health in men, particularly in light of the recent revelations by Tottenham Hotspur footballer Dele Alli about his own struggles with mental health.
Speaking on Top Radio 90.9’s “Top Sports on Top Radio” show, Dr. George said that there is a widespread stigma around mental health in Nigeria, and that this is particularly true for men.
“In our culture, men are expected to be strong and stoic,” Dr. George said. “They are not supposed to show any weakness or vulnerability. This can make it very difficult for men to admit that they are struggling with mental health problems.”
Dr. George went on to say that the stigma around mental health can have a number of negative consequences for men, including:
- They may be less likely to seek help for mental health problems.
- They may suffer in silence, which can lead to their problems getting worse.
- They may be more likely to self-harm or commit suicide.
He however, called on Nigerians to break down the stigma around mental health and to start talking more openly about mental health problems. He also called on the government to provide more resources for mental health care in Nigeria.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Dr. George said. “We need to start treating it with the same level of seriousness.”
Alli’s revelations about his own struggles with mental health have been met with a great deal of support from the football community and beyond. His story has helped to raise awareness of mental health issues in men, and it is hoped that it will encourage others to seek help if they are struggling.
