Dr. Adeoye Oyewole on the Hidden Struggles of Nigerian Married Men Battling Depression
Dr. Adeoye Oyewole, a Nigerian psychiatrist, has highlighted a troubling issue in the country: many married men are battling depression and, in some cases, committing suicide due to a lack of support from their spouses.
According to Dr. Oyewole, societal expectations and pressures, along with the absence of emotional and psychological support from wives, contribute significantly to the mental health struggles faced by Nigerian men.
Dr. Oyewole emphasized that men are often expected to be the primary breadwinners and providers, which can lead to overwhelming stress.
However, this pressure is compounded when they do not receive adequate emotional support, understanding, or companionship from their partners.
The lack of support at home can lead to feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and hopelessness, which may escalate into depression and, in extreme cases, suicide.
The psychiatrist called for greater awareness of mental health issues among men in Nigeria, especially within the context of marriage.
He stressed the importance of open communication, mutual support, and the need for women to understand and be more emotionally supportive of their husbands.
Dr. Oyewole also urged Nigerian men to seek professional help when dealing with mental health challenges, as addressing these issues early can prevent tragic outcomes.
This statement has sparked discussions on the mental health of men in Nigeria, particularly in the context of traditional gender roles and the need for a more inclusive and supportive approach to mental well-being in marriages.