June is globally recognized as Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a period dedicated to raising awareness about mental health challenges affecting men and encouraging them to seek professional help.

In line with this year’s observance, Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital has organized a specialized continuing medical education seminar aimed at breaking the silence surrounding men’s mental health and promoting community-based solutions.

Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital has intensified efforts to raise awareness of men’s mental health through a specialized Continuing Medical Education seminar themed “Breaking the Silence: Clinical Approaches and Community Strategies for Men’s Mental Health.”

Hospital Director Dr. John Bosco Nsubuga says the facility continues to offer a wide range of healthcare services, including specialized mental health care, and is using the awareness month to highlight the importance of men’s mental well-being.

Dr. Nsubuga says the hospital has organized a series of activities throughout the month aimed at educating communities and encouraging individuals experiencing mental health challenges to seek professional support.

He emphasized that mental illness is not limited to individuals seen wandering on the streets but includes a wide spectrum of conditions affecting emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Asan Kasingye, who attended the seminar as chief guest, noted that many men continue to suffer in silence due to societal expectations that discourage emotional openness and vulnerability.

Drawing from his experience in law enforcement, Kasingye highlighted the link between mental health challenges, crime, and victimization, calling for increased attention to men’s mental well-being.

He urged men to openly speak about their struggles and seek help before situations escalate.

Senior Consultant Physician Dr. Martin Nsubuga noted that the traditional expectation of men as sole providers often places significant pressure on them, exposing many to financial stress and emotional strain.

Health experts at the seminar called on families, communities, and institutions to promote open conversations about mental health, stressing that early intervention and strong social support systems are key to preventing mental health disorders among men.

They emphasized the need to create safe spaces where men can freely express their struggles without fear of stigma or discrimination.