Exploring the Nexus between Masculinity and Men’s Mental Health: Case of Goromonzi Peri Urban Mashonaland East Zimbabwe

The heavy politicization of masculinity within societies has magnified help seeking skepticism and presents a major public health challenge. While previous studies have focused on efficacy of interventions, less has been done with regards to the recipients of services. This has spurred the rationale for this study which sought to explore the nexus between masculinity and men’s mental health. Courtenay’s relational theory of gender and men’s health was used in this study. A convenient sample of 50 respondents were purposively and randomly selected from across the various ranks of the population of the study. Sampled were 5 boys, 5 girls, 20 men and 20 women who were later involved in both Focused Group Discussions and interviews. Extra data was obtained through in-depth interviews conducted with both females and male in Goromonzi staff. The interview results identified and outlined themes on the health-seeking behaviour amongst men in the peri urban areas of Goromonzi. The paper argues that despite availability of health centres, men still resent or detest consulting on health issues. Findings showed that health promotion programs go a long way towards promoting a change in individual behavior including health seeking tendencies. Results shows that cultural milieu, masculinity and cultural norms remain major influencers of men’s health-seeking behaviour. This study concludes that being a man takes on a universal status, generalisable and immutable. Aggression, reason, a need for control, competitiveness, and emotional reticence. From the above conclusion, the study recommends robust health education, sensitization and campaigns to enhance health-seeking behaviour amongst men in communities. Further recommendations include addressing cultural norms, supporting community health care workers as well as employing the multi sectoral approach at community level.