Mental health organisations have called for increased investment in providing access to therapy services to address the mental health needs of men, a demographic often overlooked in public health conversations.

The call was made during a charity – Kick for Care, organised by the Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven mental health firm, Friendndpal in Lagos, aimed to raise funds to expand therapy access for men through sports.

The Chief Executive Officer of FriendnPal, Esther Eruchie, who was represented by the Lead Therapist, Rachel Ogaji, emphasised the importance of addressing the mental health needs of men, a demographic that is often sidelined in public health conversations.

She emphasised that men face significant mental health challenges, but unfortunately, many do not speak up about their struggles. Citing statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Eruchie noted that men consistently record the highest rates of suicide each year, largely due to a lack of support systems, societal pressure to suppress emotional struggles and the stigma around men expressing vulnerability.

She stated that men are significantly less likely than women to seek mental health support, despite being at a higher risk for suicide in many parts of the world.

Eruchie said initiatives like Kick for Care are designed to help bridge that gap, both by normalising the conversation through raising awareness and offering tangible support options such as funded therapy services.
Eruchie noted that sport and fitness exercise was chosen as a platform for this campaign due to its strong ties with male communities.

The Chief Executive Officer of Chisco Transport and Machine Nation, Mr Obinna Anyaegbu, hailed the initiative as a timely intervention in addressing mental health issues.

Anyaegbu said the inclusive platform encourages open conversation around wellness, anxiety, depression, and suicide, which he said are issues too often overlooked.

He emphasised the direct impact of mental health on workplace safety and performance, particularly within high-responsibility industries like transport.

Anyaegbu also reflected on the shifting societal landscape, pointing to increased isolation among men and the distorting effects of social media as growing challenges to mental well-being.

The Senior Programme Manager/Head of Flagship at FAITH Foundation, Aghogho Akporoido, said the initiative brings together stakeholders, young people, and health experts and advocates meaningful discussions on mental health, promoting wellness through sports and leisure.

Akporoido explained that with mental health concerns rising across Nigeria, particularly among men and young people, initiatives like Kick for Care are part of a growing movement to break stigma and promote mental well-being through inclusive and community-driven efforts.

The Chief Executive Officer of Pure Fitness Africa, Kemen Ekerette, described the initiative as a much-needed bridge between physical wellness and mental health, stressing that sustainable mental wellness must include physical activity.