BTN News: Colombian actor Juan Pablo Raba, known for his roles in major productions like Narcos and Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., is breaking new ground with his podcast, “Los hombres sí lloran” (“Men Do Cry”). Inspired by his own experience with andropause and a midlife crisis, Raba aims to create an open space where men can discuss mental health issues often shrouded in silence. The actor, who began this journey after his diagnosis, now tackles topics like depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, and addiction in conversations with various guests. With this initiative, Raba is challenging the stereotypes surrounding masculinity and urging men to embrace their vulnerability.
A Personal Crisis Leads to a Public Conversation
For Raba, the journey started unexpectedly. In his late 40s, he began experiencing intense night sweats, confusion, and emotional turmoil. “I was waking up drenched in sweat,” he shares. Multiple medical tests revealed that he was going through andropause, a condition often misunderstood as merely a decline in sexual function. “Andropause can lead to depression, anxiety, and more,” Raba explains, adding that his diagnosis was a turning point, motivating him to openly discuss male mental health.
Breaking Down the Taboo: Why Raba Chose to Speak Out
Raba found that many men, like himself, had little understanding of andropause and other midlife challenges. “I realized there were not enough spaces where men could share their experiences,” he says. This realization led him to launch “Los hombres sí lloran,” a podcast aimed at creating a supportive environment for discussing male vulnerability. Raba’s goal is to show that experiencing these struggles does not make one “less of a man,” but rather highlights the importance of understanding and addressing them.
“Yes, Men Do Cry” — Redefining Masculinity
In his podcast, Raba dives deep into topics often considered off-limits for men. “I’m a crier,” he admits with a smile. “I cry out of sadness and joy. It’s part of who I am.” He recounts growing up with a father who was both pragmatic and emotional—someone who could cry at a movie but dismissed depression as a sign of weakness. This dichotomy shaped Raba’s own approach to emotions and led him to question traditional notions of masculinity. “Men have been taught to be strong and not show vulnerability,” he reflects. “It’s a societal burden that can be overwhelming.”
Midlife Crisis and Public Scrutiny: The Actor’s Perspective
Raba acknowledges that, as an actor constantly in the public eye, the pressure to maintain a youthful appearance can exacerbate midlife anxieties. “Seeing yourself age on screen is a reminder of time passing,” he shares. However, Raba has learned to focus on what truly matters. “I feel stronger and more capable at 47 than I did at 25,” he notes, crediting his newfound passion for cycling as a major positive change in his life.
Tackling Depression and Anxiety — One Conversation at a Time
While Raba has never been clinically depressed, he has faced moments of deep existential crisis and loneliness. “I’ve felt alone and anxious, but I’ve learned that telling someone it’s ‘nothing’ isn’t helpful,” he says. Through his podcast, he stresses the importance of empathy and understanding when dealing with those experiencing depression. “You have to see the world from their perspective and offer support in meaningful ways,” he advises.
The Patriarchy and Its Impact on Men
Raba also addresses how patriarchal norms harm men by enforcing unrealistic expectations. “The patriarchy affects men too, filling our minds with images of what we should be,” he states. He highlights that the societal pressure to always be “strong,” “wealthy,” and “fearless” is both exhausting and damaging. “Eight out of ten suicides are men,” he reveals, attributing this to men’s inability to express their feelings freely.
Advice to Younger Men: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Raba urges young men to seek help before reaching a breaking point. “Men usually wait until they’re at their darkest moment to ask for help,” he laments. He advises regular emotional check-ins, just like routine physical health checks. “Don’t wait until it’s too late to speak up,” he emphasizes.
A New Love for Life: Moving Forward with Balance
Through meditation, spiritual growth, understanding his role as a husband and father, and embracing new hobbies like cycling, Raba has found a renewed passion for life. “There are things we cannot control, and learning to let go is key,” he advises. “Focus on what you can change, and don’t get caught up in the imaginary.”
Championing New Masculinities in a Changing World
Raba acknowledges the cultural shift towards new masculinities but warns against the backlash that often accompanies change. “Sometimes, talking about these issues can lead to a return to outdated ‘macho’ ideals,” he observes. He believes the solution lies in open dialogue—between parents and children, friends, and communities. “If we talked more about our feelings, we wouldn’t be so desperate for someone else to tell us what to do,” he concludes.
Conclusion:
Juan Pablo Raba’s efforts to challenge male stereotypes and promote mental health awareness through his podcast, “Los hombres sí lloran,” mark a crucial step toward redefining masculinity. By sharing his experiences and inviting others to do the same, Raba is building a bridge of empathy and understanding that encourages men to embrace their emotions, seek help, and speak openly about their struggles.
