The Silent Suffering Among Belizean Men

June 24th, 2026

We are all socialized to exist in a patriarchal and misogynistic society, and men feel those impacts too. Boys are taught to “be strong,” “don’t cry,” “man up,” and more. We teach boys and men to suppress their emotions and face hardship alone. We tell them, “your pain is not important,” leaving them to laugh through pain or throw themselves into work. This creates a silent misery or despair that many Belizean men deal with. In fact, men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women in our country. According to the Belize Health Information System of 2022, 29 boys/men died by suicide compared to 8 girls/women, and the number seems to be growing.

• No one taught them it is okay to ask for help.
• No one taught them that it is okay to express emotions and hardships.
• Instead, we know shame! Which further contributes to the silence.
• So, how will you know if they need help if that safe space was never clearly or intentionally created?

Here is what I notice:

• Instead of saying “I need help,” men silence and diminish their pain.
• Instead of crying, they smoke or drink in copious amounts.
• Instead of getting professional help, they work harder.
• • This is what they know how to do!

What is within your power to do?

Check in!

Every day is painful for People with suicidal ideations, for many, the only way to end this pain is through death.    

Talk to your friends and open the door to talk about feelings. I don't mean:

“Bro, how are you?” “I’m good!” and that's the end of that. What does “good” mean? Let's move away from the small talk and make meaningful connections. Real strength and courage come from vulnerability. As a society, let's redefine strength.

If someone comes to mind while reading this, reach out to them and listen.

When the people we care about are hurting, it is automatic to jump into “fix it” mode. For instance, your friend says they have been experiencing some back pain. You immediately say, “Rub some Tiger Balm, you’ll be fine.” You just overlooked your friend in the rush to be helpful. Stay curious, show empathy!

Your loved one does not need the “fix it”  immediately; they want you to listen. This small gesture can lift the weight off someone's shoulders!

When we jump into fixing, we might unintentionally dismiss our loved one’s feelings, making them feel more disconnected. Listening is powerful enough!

As we listen:

• Respect their feelings and avoid minimizing their experiences.
• Let them know it is okay to talk about what they are going through, even if it feels uncomfortable.
• Ask open-ended questions like "How have you been feeling lately?" or "What's been on your mind?"
• Reassure them that you are there to support, not judge.

If you know you do not have the mental capacity to help someone, be honest with yourself and them. You can help that person find the appropriate help they need.

Those who are struggling

• Reach out to a loved one. Inform loved ones of warning signs. Do not isolate.
• Be outdoors (Go for a swim)
• Use existing coping skills (playing music, prayer, being with friends)

You are not alone! Get familiar with the mental health services around you, and ask someone to assist you in finding help.

Know where to call:

NEED ASSISTANCE? CALL  Belize Mental Health Program – 880-2363 Ext 1723

https://www.facebook.com/belizenationalmentalhealthprogram

You can always call the your local General hospital.

This is not a full list of all mental health professionals, but it is a good place to start:

https://www.mindhealthconnect.com/professionals-in-the-field/

Please call 911 for any emergencies!

All threats or mentions of suicide should be taken seriously.

“Suicide is a complex and deeply concerning public health issue that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide, including here in our beloved nation. It is a tragic loss of life that reverberates through society, leaving behind immeasurable pain and grief.”

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