An exhibition has opened that reminds us how important it is for men to start showing their emotions

What does the male side of the story actually mean? For centuries, films, literature, myths and history have depicted the world from a male point of view, leaving women systematically pushed aside. They still carry a disproportionately heavier burden of violence and inequality, and instead of privilege they face limitations, stereotypes and institutional distrust. On the other hand, the male side of the story in commonly accepted narratives in our region is often distorted, shaped by patriarchal structures and toxic ideas of masculinity that place their own weight on men as well. In such a divided world it becomes essential for these struggles to be shared, for us to move closer to one another, to learn, listen and understand, and for the male side to become a healthy side, one in which emotions are acknowledged rather than shamed, and where men learn how to interpret and channel them in a meaningful way, as strength, responsibility and a sign of maturity.

This idea is the foundation of the photography exhibition by Answear.hr and MNK Futsal Dinamo, which explores the complexity of male experience and highlights the importance of caring for men’s mental health. It stresses the need to teach boys from an early age to express the full range of emotions, including sadness, happiness, anxiety, anger, fear, pride, disappointment and love, so they can grow into a life that is both fulfilling and rich in quality.

Photo: Mario Poje

“Men today face many challenges, from economic and family pressures to the expectation that they always remain strong and self reliant. Yet this ideology of emotional suppression often keeps them from seeking help and looking after themselves. Taking care of your inner world is not a weakness, it is responsibility, maturity and the foundation of true strength,” says Natko Gereš, psychiatrist and head of the Counseling Department for Mental Health at the Croatian Institute of Public Health. For years they were told they had to be tough, unwavering and fearless, and today that same narrative often pushes them into silence at the very moments when they most need support. Anger frequently hides their sadness, and humor often masks fear. Psychologists refer to this as emotional masking, a survival strategy that may offer short term relief but leads to mental overload in the long run.

At the exhibition, members of MNK Futsal Dinamo expressed these emotions, drawing from their firsthand understanding of the power of unity and support, as well as the pressure and expectations that come with their sport. The participants were Nikola Milojević, Domagoj Purgar, Sebastian Sobota, Juraj Fabijanić, Tin Huzjak, Nikola Grgić, Matija Đulvat, Ivan Pavlić, Neven Zonjić and Domagoj Ante Čondić. The photographs were taken by Mario Poje.

Photo: Mario Poje

At the opening of the exhibition, Sandra Gašparić Zoković, head of Answear.hr, explained the idea behind the initiative. “For us, the Care for the Inside project is more than a socially responsible campaign. It is part of our mission to build a conscious community around the Answear brand. We devote a lot of attention to what is on the outside and forget to care for what happens inside. This is why we are joining the conversation on mental health for the second time, now with a focus on men who too often find themselves alone with their emotions.”

To mark the occasion, five thousand customers received a package from Answear.hr in November that included an educational brochure with the PHQ 9 test, a questionnaire that helps assess one’s mental state, recognize warning signs and determine whether professional help might be needed.

Photo: Mario Poje