Relationship
The unsung heroines (women): How young women can help young men overcome depression
DEPRESSION is a growing concern among young men, who are often socialised to suppress their emotions and maintain a tough exterior. However, this stigma can lead to devastating consequences, including increased rates of substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and strained relationships.
In this article, I will explore the impact of depression on young men and the crucial role some young women play in helping overcome it.
The effects of depression on
young men
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, young men are particularly vulnerable due to societal expectations and traditional masculine norms. The pressure to conform to these norms can lead to:
1. Emotional suppression: Young men may feel forced to hide their emotions, leading to isolation and disconnection.
2. Increased risk-taking behaviour: Depression manifests as reckless behaviour, such as substance abuse or aggression, as a way to cope with emotional pain.
3. Strained relationships: Depression damages relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners, exacerbating feelings of loneliness.
The role of young women in
solving depression
Young women can play a vital role in helping young men overcome depression. By being supportive, understanding, and empathetic, they can help break down the stigma surrounding mental health. Here are three effective steps young women can take:
Step 1: Listen without judgment
Create a safe space for young men to express their emotions without fear of judgment or criticism. Listen actively, and validate their feelings, acknowledging that their experiences are real and worthy of attention.
Step 2: Encourage professional help
Support young men in seeking professional help, such as therapy or counselling. Offer to help them find resources, make appointments, or accompany them to sessions. Please encourage them to prioritise their mental health and well-being.
Step 3: Foster a supportive environment
Create a supportive environment by promoting open conversations about mental health. Encourage young men to express themselves, and model healthy emotional expression yourself. By doing so, you can help break down the stigma surrounding depression and create a culture of understanding and empathy.
Conclusion
Depression is a complex issue that requires a supportive and non-judgmental approach. Young women can play a vital role in helping young men overcome depression by listening without judgment, encouraging professional help, and fostering a supportive environment. By working together, we can create a culture that promotes mental health, understanding, and empathy. Let’s break the silence and support each other in the journey towards healing and recovery.
-Jerry Fiadzenu(AUCB Student)
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Navigating social media boundaries as a couple can be tricky. With constant access to each other’s lives online, it’s essential to establish clear boundaries to maintain a healthy relationship. Here are practical tips to help couples manage social media use effectively.
1. Have an Open and Honest Conversation
The first step is to talk openly with your partner about social media usage and how it affects your relationship. Honest conversations may feel challenging, but they are essential for understanding each other’s perspectives and setting mutually acceptable boundaries.
2. Be Specific
When discussing boundaries, be clear about the behaviors that bother you and the limits you’d like to set. For example, instead of saying, “You spend too much time on social media,” try:
“I feel neglected when you are on your phone for extended periods during our conversations. Can we set a limit on phone usage during quality time together?”
3. Be Considerate
Consider and respect your partner’s viewpoint. Setting boundaries is not about controlling each other; it’s about creating balance and fostering trust in the relationship. The goal is to maintain connection without letting social media interfere with your bond.
4. Agree on Social Media Etiquette
Social media etiquette guidelines can help couples define what is and isn’t acceptable online behavior. Discuss whether you will follow each other, what kinds of photos you’ll post, and how you will interact with others online. Clear guidelines help prevent misunderstandings and maintain respect.
5. Respect Each Other’s Privacy
Respecting privacy is crucial. Avoid snooping on your partner’s accounts, sharing personal information without consent, or posting photos or updates that may make them uncomfortable. Trust and respect form the foundation of a healthy digital relationship.
6. Don’t Use Social Media as a Measure of Your Relationship
Remember that social media often shows a curated “highlight reel” of other people’s relationships. Avoid comparing your relationship to these selective portrayals. Every relationship is unique, with its own challenges and successes. Focus on what makes your bond special rather than online comparisons.
Conclusion
Setting boundaries on social media is key to nurturing a healthy, happy relationship. Open communication, mutual respect, agreed-upon etiquette, and avoiding comparison with others online are all vital steps in maintaining intimacy and trust in the digital age.
Source: Arkansas Relationship Counselling Centre
In the realm of romantic relationships, vulnerability and openness are often misconstrued as signs of weakness. However, research in psychology and relationship counselling suggests that embracing vulnerability can be a powerful catalyst for deepening emotional intimacy and strengthening bonds.
The Power of Vulnerability
Vulnerability involves sharing our innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires with our partner, making us susceptible to potential hurt or rejection. Yet, it is precisely this openness that allows us to build trust, foster empathy, and create a sense of safety in our relationships.
When couples prioritise vulnerability, they often experience a profound shift in their relationship dynamics. For instance, a couple I counselled, who were struggling to connect after a recent move, found that sharing their fears and anxieties with each other helped them rebuild their emotional intimacy. By being open about their struggles, they were able to support each other and strengthen their bond.
Benefits of Vulnerability and Openness
- Deeper understanding: By sharing our thoughts and feelings, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our partner.
- Increased empathy: When we are open about our struggles, our partner is more likely to respond with compassion and support.
- Resilience: Vulnerability helps us develop coping mechanisms and learn to navigate challenges together.
- Authentic connection: By being our authentic selves, we create a sense of mutual understanding and connection.
Cultivating Vulnerability in Relationships
So, how can we cultivate vulnerability in our relationships? Here are some practical tips:
- Start small: Begin by sharing your thoughts and feelings in low-stakes situations, like discussing a book or movie. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually share more personal aspects of yourself.
- Practice active listening: When your partner shares their vulnerabilities, respond with empathy and understanding. This helps create a safe space for open communication.
- Be present: Focus on the present moment and try to let go of distractions. This allows you to stay engaged and responsive to your partner’s needs.
- Show appreciation: Express gratitude for your partner’s vulnerability and celebrate their courage in sharing their thoughts and feelings.
In many successful relationships, couples have reported that regular “check-ins” or meaningful conversations help them stay connected and build a stronger bond. By prioritising vulnerability and openness, these couples are able to address life’s challenges together, fostering a deeper sense of connection and intimacy.
Vulnerability and openness are essential components of a healthy, fulfilling relationship. By embracing these qualities, we can build stronger, more resilient bonds with our partners. As we navigate the complexities of relationships, let us remember that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength that can bring us closer to ourselves and our loved ones.
To be continued…
Source: Excerpts from “COURTSHIP MATTERS: Keys to a Fulfilling Lasting Marriage” by Rev. Counselor Prince Offei (Lecturer, Published Author, Mental Health Professional, and Marriage Counsellor).
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