Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon has sparked conversations online after revealing why his wife is not the first person he turns to whenever he is battling personal challenges.

Speaking during a recent interview, the actor explained that many men are naturally wired to carry heavy emotional burdens without immediately seeking help. According to him, the instinct of a man is to protect those around him first, even when he is hurting inside.

Deyemi said that if danger suddenly broke out, his first reaction would be to stand in front of his loved ones to shield them. He stressed that many men grow up believing they must “chest” difficult situations regardless of the emotional weight.

However, the actor made it clear that this mindset should not stop men from seeking support. He encouraged men to build healthy support systems instead of suffering in silence whenever life becomes overwhelming.

Sharing his personal experience, Deyemi disclosed that his therapist or mentor is usually the first person he contacts whenever he is going through a difficult period. According to him, they remain on speed dial because they help him process situations objectively.

The actor added that while his wife is not always his first call, she remains his strongest support whenever things become too difficult to handle alone.

“When things become too hard, there’s my wife. She isn’t the first person I call because she’s also handling her own responsibilities and taking care of our family. But when it gets overwhelming, I wake her up, even in the middle of the night, and ask her to help me,” he said.

Deyemi, who married his wife in 2013, revealed that they first met while studying Chemical Engineering at the University of Lagos. The couple now have three sons together.

Over the years, the award-winning actor has repeatedly praised his wife for supporting his career, previously revealing that she encouraged him to pursue acting professionally after recognizing his passion for the craft.