In light of recurring local events making headlines and the everyday situations I witness, I felt a strong urge to write this today.
Teaching boys from a young age to regulate their emotions, both in school and through their upbringing at home, is crucial for men’s mental health. In my work focusing on mental health and well-being, particularly in emotion and emotion regulation, I have encountered several cases highlighting the importance of this issue.
Societal norms often teach men to suppress their feelings, and refrain from seeking support or sharing their issues with their spouses, reinforcing the harmful message that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. This approach has led to alarming statistics in men’s mental health. According to the Times of Malta (July 22, 2023), in countries like Canada and the UK, 75% of suicides are committed by men, escalating to 79% in the US, and an astonishing 80% in Malta in 2022.
Instead, we need to instill in our boys the skills to regulate and manage their emotions from an early age. The transformation from suppression to expression and understanding of emotions is vital for the mental health of men and the overall well-being of society. When they are unable to handle these emotions alone, it is vital to encourage them to seek support until they are confident to manage independently.
Moreover, for those in a relationship, involving spouses/partners in the process can provide additional support and help in resolving issues comprehensively. The absence of spousal support in a relationship can significantly aggravate any issue, regardless of its severity or nature (and I emphasise this!), potentially leading to profound unhappiness. In a partnership, the emotional backing of a spouse is not just a comfort but a crucial element of strength. When individuals face challenges, the understanding, empathy, and support of their partner can be pivotal in managing and overcoming these tough times. Without this mutual support, even minor problems can escalate, creating a pervasive sense of distress and dissatisfaction.
By fostering emotional intelligence in boys, we are nurturing a generation of men who are not only healthier and happier but also more empathetic and engaged, particularly in their relationships and marriages. In a blog post I wrote last November (https://educationalneurosciencehub.com/2023/11/05/movember-and-beyond-the-imperative-of-emotion-regulation-strategies-for-boys-in-schools/), I emphasised that Movember is more than just a campaign; it represents a crucial call to action to prioritise the emotional well-being of boys and young men. Implementing emotion regulation strategies in educational settings is not just an educational reform; it’s a vital public health initiative.