Expert Warns of Silent Crisis in Men’s Mental Health, Calls for Urgent Action

Dr Marlon Simpson, a leading psychiatrist at Bellevue Hospital, is sounding the alarm on the growing mental health crisis among Jamaican men, emphasizing the urgent need to address burnout, emotional health, and the lack of safe, stigma-free spaces for men to express themselves.

Mental Health Wards Full, But Voices Still Unheard

Speaking at a recent JN Circle event in recognition of Men’s Mental Health Month, Dr Simpson shared that male psychiatric wards are routinely filled to capacity, far outnumbering female wards. “Many men only feel heard for the first time when they enter the hospital,” he stated.

He described a pattern of emotional suppression, worsened by cultural expectations that discourage men from seeking help.

Burnout is More Than Fatigue

Dr Simpson defined burnout as a chronic emotional collapse, often misinterpreted as stress or laziness. Symptoms include emotional detachment, insomnia, and physical pain with no medical cause. In men, this can manifest as aggression, substance abuse, and withdrawal from loved ones.

He warned of dangerous drug combinations including marijuana, alcohol, ecstasy, and even embalming fluid being used as coping mechanisms.

Changing the Narrative

Simpson called for society to shift how we approach mental health conversations. “Instead of saying ‘Go get help,’ we need to say, ‘Let’s talk to someone together.’” He praised Bellevue Hospital’s move to introduce mental health days and flexible work policies, urging other institutions to follow suit.

He closed with a powerful plea:
“Take off the mask. Talking, even just a little, can save a life.”

Our Opinion

Men’s mental health is not a side issue — it’s a national emergency hiding in plain sight. Until we break cultural taboos and create real support systems, many men will continue to suffer in silence. Workplaces, communities, and families all have a role to play.

Let’s break the silence. Share this story, open up a conversation, and follow Mykro Wave TV JM for more on the fight for mental wellness in Jamaica.