The lead creative at Blackhemages Media Concepts, Oluwatunmise Oladapo-Kuku, is set to host a groundbreaking retreat titled “A Fight for Life,” to address the urgent issue of men’s mental health.
Scheduled for November 23, 2024, at The Rembrandt Hotel in Ikeja, the event seeks to create a psychologically safe space for men to engage in open dialogue about their mental well-being.
Kuku, who has over 20 years of experience as a media practitioner and lives with bipolar affective disorder, emphasizes the importance of understanding mental health beyond the stigmas often associated with mental illness. Through her podcast, “Mindfully with Tunmise,” she aims to demystify narratives surrounding mental health and promote wholeness and authenticity.
“A Fight for Life” will encourage men to connect with their true selves, addressing the often-ignored issue of mental health in men. Participants will explore their inner identities, navigate societal expectations, and gain tools to foster resilience.
”While June is recognized as Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, November also focuses on men’s health, highlighting the need for proactive discussions”.
The Mental Health Advocate expressed gratitude for the support of collaborators who have joined her vision, including co-host Ola Akin Dawodu and various partners contributing resources for the retreat. She noted that this initiative aims to raise awareness and provide healing opportunities, reinforcing that men can be healthy for themselves and their families.
As Oladapo-Kuku aptly stated, “Most dads will die for their families, but only a small number are willing to be healthy for them.” With this retreat, she hopes to foster a community where men can heal, connect, and thrive.
According to the World Health Organisation, W.H.O. in the UK, a man dies by suicide every 90 minutes, with approximately 25 attempts for every successful case. In Nigeria, the suicide rate stands at around 9.5 per 100,000, placing it among the highest in Africa.
