Why Men's Mental Health Matters: Breaking the Silence

This Sunday is Father's Day, and June is Men's Mental Health Month. It's time to speak openly about the mental health struggles of males, dads, sons, brothers, partners, and friends and the stresses they frequently bear in silence at this time due to stereotypes of having to remain strong and suppress any emotions. But these same stereotypes can kill people. The most prevalent issues, such as substance abuse, high-functioning depression, and suicide, are all the most prevalent among men. This "silent burden" frequently begins at a young age; boys are told to be "tough," "man up," and "don't cry." These are persistent messages that can also cause men to suppress their emotions and feel misunderstood. These slight comments and beliefs that are pushed towards men can later on impact relationships, physical health, and self-worth when emotional needs are ignored for years.

There are also many common barriers men face in therapy. There is the notion that seeking help indicates weakness, making them afraid that if they talk about their mental health issues, they will be perceived as "less capable" or "not in control." Additionally, throughout childhood, many males did not have a proper emotional outlet or safe space to discuss their feelings without being judged. It can feel strange or scary to begin therapy if they have never been taught how to discuss their innermost feelings. To add on, some guys believe therapy is "not for them" or are unsure where to start. Others feel misunderstood after making one attempt. It is important to locate a therapist that you are comfortable with and who works for you, and when you do, it's worthwhile.

There are some things you can do to improve the mental health of the men in your life. For instance, to always check in on them, not only when they seem like they're in a bad mood. A genuine conversation can begin with a simple "How's your stress lately?" question. Maybe express your coping mechanisms, both positive and negative, and demonstrate that vulnerability does not equate to weakness. Additionally, it's important to normalize therapy. Being broken isn't the point of treatment. It all comes down to having a place to unload, think, and work things out. Men are also entitled to that safe space.

Being a father combines joy, responsibility, pressure, and pride. It's commonly believed that fathers can "just handle it." However, in private, they may be overburdened by financial strain, sleep deprivation, changing relationships, or a lack of understanding about how to provide emotional support for their children while they are under stress themselves. Dads sometimes feel like they have no space to break down. That anticipation leads to suppressed depression and loneliness.

Don't settle for the standard Father's Day card or gift this year. Talk to a father about his emotional health, work, and parenting responsibilities. Give him the safe space to just talk and express themselves.

Whether you're a dad balancing everything, a man experiencing depression but not knowing why, Trust Therapy offers treatment that meets you where you are. Solving problems, developing new coping mechanisms, grieving, or having a safe space to discuss your feelings where you don't have to keep everything suppressed can all be part of therapy.