Fitness, health, and behavioral coach Barima Osei Asare has called for the establishment of support systems to address the often-overlooked issue of abuse against men.
Speaking on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning show with Nathaniel Attoh, he emphasized that abuse extends beyond physical violence, with emotional abuse being the most common form affecting men.
“When it comes to being abused, it is doing stuff the improper way. The way you say good morning can be an abuse. If it is done the improper way, it’s abuse. Even the way you hug; people hug you like they hate you, but they’ll still hug you because it’s mandatory for them to hug you; it’s an abuse. Even when serving food to your partner, welcome them when they come from work, saying goodbye before they leave to work…” he explained.
Mr. Asare highlighted that men often endure various forms of mistreatment that are typically disregarded, leading many to remain silent despite the harm it causes. He stressed the need for society to take men’s issues seriously, noting that the absence of support structures for men contributes to rising mortality rates among them.
“Society should do better, and there should be systems in place for men to report, not as in report for seeking help. There should be support systems for men. I researched and realised that there’s no even budget for men who are victimised,” he said.
In commemoration of International Men’s Day on November 19, Mr. Asare urged men to prioritize self-care, reminding them, “The only person who cannot leave you is yourself. Take care of your body and internal organs.”
He also encouraged men to support one another by discussing emotional challenges, adding that conversations should extend beyond football to include topics that promote mutual well-being.