This June, Let's Rewrite the Narrative: Men, Mental Health, and Strength

Did you know June is Men's Mental Health Month? While Bollywood heroes may always seem larger than life, battling villains and winning the hearts of millions, the reality is, men face mental health struggles just like everyone else. This month let's break the silence and show the men in our lives – fathers, brothers, husbands, sons, friends – that it's okay to not be okay, and that strength lies in seeking help.

Bollywood Dialogues, Real-Life Struggles:

Remember this iconic scene from "Dil Chahta Hai" (2001)? Akash (Aamir Khan), the seemingly carefree friend, confesses, "Zindagi jeena yaar, yeh zaroori nahi ki har waqt muskuraate raho (Living life, friend, doesn't mean you have to smile all the time)". This simple dialogue captures a complex truth – men are conditioned to suppress emotions, but emotions, just like that winning dance sequence, need expression.

Here's how YOU can be the heroine in their story:

Be a Listening Ear: Sometimes, all it takes is someone to listen without judgment. Remember Kabir Singh (Shahid Kapoor) in "Kabir Singh" (2019)? Bottling up his pain led him down a dark path. Be the Preeti (Kiara Advani) who offers a space for him to express himself.

Challenge the Stigma: Movies often portray the "tough guy" who never needs help. Let's rewrite that narrative! Talk openly about mental health, share resources, and normalize seeking professional help.

Celebrate Vulnerability: Remember that scene in "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" (2011) where Arjun (Hrithik Roshan) lets out a relieved cry after conquering his fear of water? Let's celebrate men who embrace their vulnerability. It's not a sign of weakness, but of immense strength.

Encourage Self-Care: Just like our favorite heroes need a break after saving the day, men need self-care too. Encourage healthy hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and prioritizing mental well-being.

Men are often the strong pillars in our lives, the ones we lean on for support. But sometimes, even the strongest pillars need a little shoring up. This June, be the emotional anchor for the men in your life. Let them know you see them, you understand them, and that you're there for them, no matter what. A simple "How are you, really?" or a listening ear can make a world of difference. You can be the sunshine that breaks through the clouds, the gentle breeze that offers solace, the hand that helps them weather any storm.

 Psalm: 04:24 - In silence we struggle, hear our unheard plea.