Founder Urges Government to Create Male Crisis Centres

Healing Hands Foundation founder and counsellor, Mohenesh Singh is urging Government to establish a Crisis Hub Centre for males around the country.

Mr Singh said this should be included in the 2024-2025 National Budget.

He said Fiji had many male-related problems, but it failed to look at coping mechanisms and solutions.

“We need to work with the Government to act swiftly and develop resources to handle men’s mental health,” he said.

“We need easy access for men to walk in and talk freely about their crisis without any shyness.

“Establishing the male hub centres will minimise other social issues such as the use of illicit drugs, alcohol, suicide, and domestic violence.”

He said it was sad to see that men choose negative coping mechanisms more easily than professional therapists or social workers.

“We understand how difficult it can be if you are a man experiencing domestic abuse or other forms of violence. You might feel scared, isolated, and confused.”

Mr Singh said men had feelings just like any other person and needed support too.

“For most men, the difficulty in seeking therapy lies in the stigma and social construct that men need to ‘have it all together’ and can’t ask for help,” he said.

“Therapy helps you learn how your mind works. It allows you to navigate your feelings, build healthier habits, and change your mindset, so that your life looks more like you want.

“Many people are resistant to the idea of participating in therapy when they first start struggling with their mental health.

“Now is the time to change our thinking and stop dying daily inside our feelings. Do speak out with professional counselors. There are lots of men whom we are losing because they cannot find support.”

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