Episode 06: “Man Up?”: Breaking the Silence Around Men’s Mental Health - A conversation with Lloyd Sikeba

What does it mean to “man up,” and at what cost? In this episode, our host Selma Ndasilohenda Iyambo is joined by motivational speaker and life coach Lloyd Sikeba to explore the silent crisis surrounding men’s mental health in honour of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month.Recorded live at the #BeFree Youth Campus in Katutura, this conversation delves into the stigma that prevents many men from speaking out, as well as the cultural and social conditioning that teaches boys to suppress their emotions. They discuss the long-term effects of untreated mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.Lloyd shares his journey of seeking counseling and the inner struggle he faced in letting go of pride to ask for help. He reflects on how societal expectations of masculinity often discourage men from being vulnerable, which can lead to dire consequences.Together, they emphasize the importance of supporting boys, debunking harmful stereotypes, and creating safe spaces for men and boys to express themselves without fear or shame. This episode serves as a heartfelt call to action during Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month; true strength lies not in silence, but in seeking support.