Rabat – We all know International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, but what about men? On November 19 each year, the world celebrates International Men’s Day. It is a day to recognize their role, honor their contributions, and bring awareness about men’s mental health and emotional well-being.
Today is the perfect reminder to pause, appreciate the men in our lives, and acknowledge their quiet efforts – the everyday things that often go unnoticed but truly matter.
In a society that expects men to hide their feelings, showing emotion is often treated as a weakness – as if opening up would somehow make them less manly. Crying is off-limits, because tears are “for girls” only. And if a man dares to let his guard down, he’s immediately met with mockery or judgment.
The High Commission for Planning (HCP) reports, based on WHO estimates, that Morocco recorded a suicide mortality rate of 7.2 per 100,000 people in 2020, with 9.7 for men and 4.7 for women.
These numbers represent more than just statistics; they reflect a deeper emotional weight that many men carry every single day. Men are expected to protect, lead, and provide, even on the days when they feel lost or overwhelmed. They’re seen as the symbol of strength and responsibility.
But beyond all the roles they take on, mental health should remain a priority. Because for everyone, our well-being is the one thing that sustains us through everything we do.
When it comes to expressing emotions, girls are encouraged to talk openly, share insecurities, and cry when needed. If this is normal for women, why is it still seen as a problem for men?
Emotions are part of being human, not a sign of weakness – for anyone. Vulnerability doesn’t make men weaker; it makes them real. And giving men the space to speak without shame isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
International Men’s Day is a moment to appreciate the men around us – fathers, brothers, friends, teachers, and colleagues. Just like women, men deserve recognition for their efforts.
So today, let’s remind the men in our lives that they matter. Their feelings matter. Their mental health matters. Because being a man has never meant being unbreakable.
Happy men’s day – not just today, but every day!
