Tag: Mind and Money

By Tokiso TKay Nthebe June is dedicated to raising mental health awareness for men – and it’s not just another awareness campaign. It’s a vital reminder that men, too, are human. They struggle, they feel, and yes—they also need help. In many communities, including ours, men are still expected to be strong, silent, and stoic. Breadwinners. Providers. Protectors. But what happens when life throws curveballs like retrenchment, debt, or relationship breakdowns? Here’s the truth: ignoring these pressures can take a serious toll on men’s mental health, and by extension, their financial health too. That’s why this blog is a call to action—not just for men, but for all of us—to be kinder, more open, and more supportive. What Is Mental Health Really About? Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It's about how we think, feel, and act—especially under stress or pressure. For men, who are often taught to “man up” and “deal with it,” understanding and protecting mental health becomes even more critical. When unaddressed, poor mental health can lead to serious issues like depression, substance abuse, and even suicide. The Connection Between Mental Health and Money Let’s be honest: money matters, and so does your mind. There’s a clear link between mental health and financial health. When you’re anxious, stressed, or depressed, it affects the way you manage money. And when your finances are in disarray, it adds even more stress. It’s a vicious cycle, especially for men who feel the pressure to always provide. In our work at TKO Financial Wellness, we see this every day. Young professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs—especially men—are silently struggling. The rising cost of living, unemployment, and debt all take a toll on their money management and emotional well-being. When financial pressure piles up, it can lead to: Chronic anxiety and stress Anger or emotional outbursts Substance abuse or escapism Avoidance of financial responsibilities Social withdrawal and relationship issues And in extreme cases, it contributes to alarming suicide rates. In Lesotho, for instance, the World Health Organisation reported in 2021 that 41.4 deaths per 100,000 people are caused by self-harm. These are not just numbers. These are our brothers, friends, colleagues, and sons. Breaking the Silence: Let’s Talk About Men’s Mental Health The old way isn’t working. “Real men don’t cry”? That outdated belief is hurting lives. From childhood, boys are taught to bottle things up, to “toughen up” and “never show weakness.” Phrases like “Monna ke nku ha a lle” (a man is a sheep; he does not cry) reinforce this stigma. But emotional suppression isn’t a strength. Vulnerability is. We need to: ✅ Create safe, judgment-free spaces for men to talk✅ Normalise therapy and seeking support✅ Unlearn harmful language and stereotypes✅ Check in on the men in our lives, often and genuinely Mental health support is just as important as financial planning. You can’t build wealth if you’re mentally and emotionally burnt out. True money adventures begin when your mind and money are aligned. Let’s Reimagine Strength Strength isn’t silence. Strength is getting help. It’s choosing therapy. It’s talking about debt, loss, and pain without shame. It’s learning new habits. It’s managing your money and your mind with intention. This June and beyond, let’s prioritise mental health awareness, especially for men. Let’s encourage healthier conversations about money management and emotions. Let’s empower men to take ownership of both their wallets and their well-being. Because at TKO Financial Wellness, we believe that a better relationship with your money starts with a healthier relationship with yourself. Need support?If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t keep quiet. Talk to a mental health professional, financial coach, or someone you trust. You are not alone. Want more? Join the My Money Adventures community for practical tools, real stories, and expert tips to help you manage your money with confidence. Let’s grow together, one smart money move at a time. Tokiso TKay Nthebe is an author, podcast host, financial coach and lead advisor at TKO Financial Wellness & Advisory who is passionate about financial wellness, education and financial planning. 🔎 Visit TKO Money Adventures Academy for more relatable and practical content to help you stay financially informed and empowered.

Tag: Mind and Money

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