This International Men’s Day, Let’s Break Stereotype Around Men

Do you know when International Men’s Day is? Or Do you even know such a day exists in our calendar?

How many of you know that we have a men’s day as we do for women? We were perplexed to know that many of us didn’t have any hint. Even though when we tried addressing our acquaintances, they thought we were joking. The men are in denial that they also deserve to have a particular day, not as father or son, or brother but as a man.

It was 1992 when we began to celebrate men on 7th February. However, in 2009, the date had shifted to 19th November when we finally recognised 19th November as International Men’s Day. This day is not just about celebration but also about bringing awareness for men’s physical and mental health and promoting gender equality.

For decades, we have been caging women with our conservative and illogical thoughts. But we didn’t even recognise that it is not only for women but for men too. When we are setting up rules for women, we are unknowingly setting rules for men also.

For example, when we state ‘women are weaker’, we also authenticate that ‘men are stronger.’ The stereotype does not always come in their way because they somehow unknowingly accept it. This World Men’s Day, we need to bring awareness about these stereotypes.

This blog will talk about stereotypes that force men to be in a cage and conform to certain types.

Men are supposed to be strong

When we talk about health, diseases will never discriminate between men and women as society does. We must take care of our health irrespective of gender. Men tend to believe that they are stronger than women to tolerate any health issues. However, the facts are quite the opposite. Women live longer than men.

So, it is crucial to take care of your health whenever you face any issue. Neglecting your health problems may lead to severe diseases that could be fatal. Whether you are a man or woman, a basic health check-up is mandatory because your body is where you live, so you must nurture it well.

Men don’t show their emotions and are mentally tough

‘Men don’t cry.”Men don’t show emotions.’

Society sets the above statement, and that is leading men to mental illnesses. Men must understand, anybody can talk about their mental health. As human beings, men also face many issues related to mental health, and it is necessary to talk about it. It is ok that you are not ok and feeling low.

It’s not that only women can overflow with emotions and cry, and men need to understand they don’t need to appear tough and strong always. A man has the right to be emotional just as a woman because he is also a human. International Men’s Day focuses on bringing awareness to men’s mental health. And it is society’s responsibility to talk about mental health and break the taboo around it.

Men should provide for the family

Men are prime pillars for earning. This century rule is so intense that it will take another decade or so to brush the misconception about the primary provider for the family. The truth is that it is not always a man’s job to support his family. In the 21st century, women can also be equal providers.

If you are not ready yet, let your partner do the job. It is ok to focus on your health or passion or be a homemaker while your partner works. Don’t let your responsibilities be your burdens.

Men must prioritise work

Workplace stereotypes are also harmful. Men tend to focus on work more and spend less time with family. As prime earning family members, men are pressured to work hard to keep their jobs steady, inherently prioritising work over everything.

However, we need to understand that there is no harm in leaving early for family functions or taking off to take care of one’s family. Men also need relaxing, a break from work, and some ‘me-time.’ This International Men’s Day, men should understand that prioritising family over career is perfectly fine.

Take Away

We have now understood how critical the situation is. Due to a lack of awareness, society forces men to do things harmful to their well-being. Men’s Day celebrates enlightening men’s physical and mental health, gender equality and much more. Be a free human. It is high time to break these stereotypes. This International Men’s Day takes a vow to build a better future for men and women, irrespective of gender.