“FIVE TO TWELVE” WALK MARKS MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH MONTH IN BANJA LUKA

A symbolic walk titled “Five to Twelve” was held on June 13 in Banja Luka’s main pedestrian zone, Gospodska Street, to mark Men’s Mental Health Month and raise awareness about the importance of open conversations regarding mental well-being.

The event was organized by the Banja Luka citizens’ association Superbrke, together with volunteers from SAMSIC, an organization bringing together students of the Faculty of Medicine. Through the campaign slogan “SAY IT, BROTHER,” organizers sent a strong message encouraging men to speak openly about their emotions, challenges, and mental health concerns.

During the walk, participants distributed blue ribbons to citizens. The blue ribbon is an internationally recognized symbol of support for men’s health and served as a visible reminder of solidarity with men facing difficult life situations.

The timing of the event carried a powerful symbolic meaning. The phrase “Five to Twelve” represents a warning that it is high time for society to give men’s mental health the attention it deserves. Despite growing awareness of mental health issues, many men still find it difficult to talk about their feelings, fears, and personal struggles. Social expectations, stereotypes, and traditional beliefs often create pressure for men to appear strong, self-reliant, and silent when dealing with emotional difficulties.

The consequences of such attitudes are increasingly visible through rising levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, workplace burnout, and other mental health challenges that can significantly affect quality of life, family relationships, professional development, and overall well-being. This year’s campaign therefore carries a simple but powerful message: talking is not a sign of weakness but of courage and responsibility toward oneself and the people around us.

Organizers emphasized that support often begins with a simple conversation, understanding, and a willingness to listen.

The blue ribbon distributed during the event symbolized hope, solidarity, and the reminder that help is available and seeking it should never be considered a taboo.

Men’s Mental Health Month is observed throughout June with a series of activities aimed at promoting awareness and encouraging healthier conversations about mental well-being. As part of the “Say It, Brother” campaign, special attention is given to “Blue Fridays,” educational initiatives, public discussions, and the charity sale of a special edition of Superbrke T-shirts.

Funds raised through these activities will be directed to the Brko Fund, which supports projects focused on promoting men’s health, education, and awareness of important health-related topics.

The “Say It, Brother” campaign will continue throughout June with the goal of making men’s mental health a subject that can be discussed openly, responsibly, and without prejudice.