Press Release: Embracing Vulnerability– Redefining Masculinity For Mental And Physical Wellness
On Saturday, 21st September, 2024 the maiden edition of “Men’s Mental Health Awareness” outreach brought together men from all works of life to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health and promote the importance of emotional well-being by embracing vulnerability. Held at Dr Abayomi Finnih Recreational Park, Allen, Ikeja Lagos, the event provided a platform for mental health talks, open discussions, and connection.
The event was graced with key note speakers spurred from diverse works of life who shared their wealth of knowledge from their various fields of work and personal experience.
Dr. Akeem Adeyemi, a Consultant Psychiatrist, captivated attendees with a powerful lecture on breaking the barriers of societal expectations and the importance of seeking help when needed.
Dr. Otis Ojeikhoa, one of the speakers/panelist and President of Arogi Trauma Care Foundation, in his speech gave a deep analysis of why men should seek help and therapy drawing from his personal experience. In his words; “Whether you are a man or a woman when you are faced with traumatic situations the pain is the same but the difference is that for women, they tend to have support but men lock up”. He further encouraged attendees to look after their mental health just as the way they look after their physical health.
We had Experts who shared experiences and insights through panel discussions. These Experts/ Panelists were Mrs Gloria Robson, a renowned Etiquette and Image Consultant, Ms Judith Gbadebo, Clinical Psychologist, Mr Odusanya Adedeji, a licensed and certified Clinical Psychologist and Dr Otis Ojeikhoa, President Arogi Trauma Care Foundation.
Topics of discussion included Etiquettes, managing stress, stimulation therapy, vulnerability in men, overcoming societal pressures, and adopting mindfulness practices.
The take home for every attendee was that men should embrace vulnerability and never see it as weakness, men should discard the mask of toughness and silence but rather embrace an openness for discussion when faced with trauma and life’s challenges.
We had Frederick Abiola Cudjoe, who graced the event as the moderator who did an interesting job by engaging and connecting the panelists to the attendees.
The Programme Coordinator and Convener of the Outreach Ms Adenike Adebayo gave her closing remarks and vote of thanks appreciating everyone for gracing the event while looking forward to future events and further collaboration.
There were refreshments powered by Malta Guinness and other side activities such as fun games and comedy anchored by MOG Akpors.
The event attracted over 100 participants, demonstrating the community’s eagerness to address men’s mental health. Feedback highlighted the transformative impact of the discussions and workshops, with attendees expressing gratitude for the supportive atmosphere and actionable takeaways.
Building on the success of “Men’s Mental Health Awareness Outreach,” the organizers plan to host similar events yearly. The goal is to continue normalizing mental health conversations and giving men the platform to embrace vulnerability.
For more information about this event or future initiatives, contact the Programme Co-ordinator and Convener, Adenike Adebayo, Omo Daadaa Foundation at +2349095511489.
Frederick Abiola-Cudjoe
Frederick Abiola Cudjoe is a blogger, content creator who is in service to Arogi Trauma Care Foundation. He is solution driven and result oriented. He has a strong passion to always make clients have the best customer service experience.
