Men in Soshanguve Gather to Heal and Break the Silence on Emotional Struggles

By Mncedisi Maseko 

Credits: Roger Mandhlazi

On the 17 of August 22, 2024, a group of man gathered in the heart of Soshanguve community at block DD. Their gathering was focused on healing emotional wounds and challenging the stigma that men should remain silent about their struggles and emotions.

Attendees of the gathering. Credits Rodger Mandhlazi

The gathering was hosted by Lucky Mahlangu (Founder), Molefe Musi (event facilitator), Bishop Simelane (Religious leader), Benjamin Monyane (Health promotion practitioner). The event featured various topics focused on men’s mental health and men’s sexual health.

“The purpose of today’s meetings to break the stigma of man don’t cry, and today we are here to tell them to allow the tears to break the silence and stop the bleeding.” Lucky Mahlangu founder of mending broken hearts shares the theme of the gathering

At the gathering, Benjamin Monyane, a health promotion practitioner, provided insightful advice on maintaining men’s sexual health. He discussed strategies for avoiding diseases that could lead to stress and offered practical tips for overcoming health challenges.

Benjamin Monyane addressing issues that a faced by man and how to tackle them.
Credits Rodger Mandhlazi
 

He stated other preventative measures that will be introduced next year to help prevent HIV.

"There is a new ring being trialed now that will be introduced sometime next year. It is designed as a preventative measure for HIV, similar to PrEP, but specifically for women. This ring will help protect them from HIV." Said Benjamin Monyanye a health promotion practitioner

He highlighted some of the diseases that affect many men such as Andropause, sometimes called "male menopause." Andropause is a disease that gradual decrease the testosterone levels in men as they get older, usually starting around age 35. This drop in hormone levels can lead to symptoms like low energy, reduced sex drive, and mood changes. It's like menopause in women but happens more slowly

He also stated that some disease symptoms take time to appear, and it's important to be aware of one's health and go for regular check-ups at the clinic so that any potential issues can be detected early and managed effectively.

To fight prevent this disease and others he said people need to start eating healthy, especially vegetables and other speakers included that one of the best water to drink will be ALKILINE water brand as they where specially made to help fight diseases from within and urged attendees to exercise regularly.

In closing, the event facilitator, Molefe Musi, shared a few words, “We start by respecting each other to understand where we are going, where we come from, and who we are as individuals and as a community before we can reach a point and a goal that unifies us.”

The gathering marked an important step towards breaking the silence surrounding men's health issues and emotional struggles. It encouraged open dialogue and mutual support from experts, fostering a sense of community among the men of Soshanguve. The insights shared will hopefully inspire more men to seek help and support each other in their journeys toward better health.