The mental health crisis in Samoa has reached alarming levels, with a significant rise in cases among men in recent years, according to Reverend Dr. Alesana Pala'amo.

He is a co-founder of Soul Talk Samoa Trust. He stated that mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicide rates are on the rise among Samoan men, with many struggling to cope with the pressures of modern life.

One of the many factors contributing to this rise in mental health issues is the traditional expectations placed on men in Samoa. 

In Samoan culture, men are often expected to be the primary providers for their families, as well as the leaders and protectors of their communities. This can place a heavy burden on men which according to Dr Alesana it is one of the leading factors.

"These cultural expectations can create a sense of responsibility and duty that may be overwhelming for some men, especially when faced with economic challenges or societal changes," he told this newspaper.

Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health in Samoa can prevent men from seeking help when they are struggling. Mental health is often seen as a taboo subject, and seeking help for psychological issues is viewed as a sign of weakness says Dr Alesana. 

"There are many other factors apart from culture, but most people haven't acknowledged coping methods to help them," he said.

"This can result in many men suffering in silence, without the necessary support and treatment."

Although there isn't a specific prevalence rate of male health patients on the rise, one mental health clinic in Moamoa has seen a significant number of men seeking their help. Goshen Trust Health CEO Afitu Naomi Eshraghi says that out of five hundred plus of their patients, 80 per cent are male.

"Among the programs designed to meet the recovery of patients' illness, such as offering targeted therapy sessions focusing on issues commonly faced by men includes providing education and awareness tailored to suit patients and their primary carer, their family members," wrote the CEO.

The absence of a helpline that Faataua Le Ola tended to help people with suicidal tendencies also exacerbates the crisis. There are only a few mental health professionals in the country. This means that many men are unable to receive the help and support they need to address their mental health issues.

As the mental health crisis in Samoa continues to worsen, steps must be  taken to address the root causes of the issue and provide better support and resources for those in need.

"People are not crazy it's more likely that they are showing symptoms of mental illness and many people don't know," said Dr. Alesana.

"They need to seek help and talk to someone."

There is this mindset among men that they can tackle their challenges without assistance, which Dr. Alesana says is slowly changing as more men acknowledge the benefits of the various counselling therapies offered by entities such as SoulTalk Samoa, Ghosen Trust and Seiuliali'i Dr. George Tuitama who is the only registered psychiatrist in Samoa.

"By breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, increasing access to services, and providing education and awareness about mental health, we can help prevent further suffering and improve the well-being of Samoa's men," Dr Alesana said,

"There are services that can help address this issue and many don't seem to seek the help that they need or refer someone that needs help."