Why Therapy is for “Tough Guys” Too!
I often hear people referring to their friend or significant other as a ‘typical bloke’. The implication is that this person is a tough, no-nonsense sort of guy. He doesn’t discuss his emotions; in fact, you’d be hard pressed to believe he has any judging by how he holds himself. If there is one thing I learned from working on construction sites for ten years, it’s this: that bloke is a myth! Beneath the surface men are just as prone to feeling lost, confused, anxious and depressed as women. Men may struggle to open up for several reasons. Often it’s a matter of not knowing how.
It’s not uncommon for men to have gone a lifetime without being given the tools to handle their emotional wellbeing. Many of us transition from boyhood to manhood without proper guidance. We then take our cues from culture, society and what we think are masculine ideals – often to our detriment. With mounting responsibilities it can be easy (and sometimes needed) to push feelings aside. The problem with that strategy is that it’s a short-term fix that, if left unaddressed, almost always makes matters worse in the long-run.
Do you consider yourself one of these men? Perhaps you struggle to understand what it is you really need? Reaching out to a mental health professional can provide a safe and confidential way to discuss matters, and equip you with skills to navigate your internal world and intimate relationships. It’s one thing for you to deny your emotions – the consequences of that denial might be harder to ignore. Maybe it’s time to have a chat.
Harry Bechara
FollowCategory : Blog & Bullying & Depression & Health & Wellbeing & Manhood & Men and Anger & Mood