Mental Health and Men

Men face unique mental health challenges shaped by upbringing, environment, and deeply embedded social expectations. From an early age, many boys are taught to suppress emotions—discouraged from crying or expressing vulnerability. These early lessons often carry into adulthood, creating barriers to seeking help or processing emotional pain.

Throughout my work, I’ve seen the emotional toll this takes—particularly in men from older generations. War veterans, for example, are often resilient and tough on the outside, yet internally struggle with memories and feelings they were taught to bury. Many men have never been shown how to speak about emotions, let alone understand or regulate them in healthy ways.

As gender roles evolve, more men are staying at home with their children or adopting roles traditionally seen as ‘feminine.’ While empowering, this shift can conflict with long-held identities around masculinity, causing internal confusion and stress.

For younger men, the lack of emotional role models and limited relationship experience can make challenges like breakups especially painful and isolating.

How Therapy Helps

Therapy offers a safe, confidential space for men to explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and redefine what it means to be strong. By gently challenging internalised beliefs and offering emotional tools, therapy helps men reconnect with themselves, build stronger relationships, and improve their overall well-being.

Through guided conversations and practical techniques, men can learn that expressing emotion is not a weakness—but a powerful step toward personal growth and resilience.

A Client’s Experience: What a Breakup Taught Me About Being a Man

_”I recently went through a breakup—well, she asked for space. There was no big fight. Just silence. And I didn’t take it well.

I had always believed I needed to be the strong one. But I fell apart. I couldn’t eat, sleep, or talk to anyone. I felt lost.

Eventually, I made a choice: I gave her the space she needed—and gave some to myself too. I started exercising, focusing on work, and reconnecting with who I was.

We’ve since reconciled, but that time apart was powerful. It taught me that we don’t talk enough about emotional pain in men.

Real strength isn’t about pretending. It’s about facing pain, feeling it, and still showing up for yourself.

You’re allowed to hurt. You’re allowed to heal. And asking for help doesn’t make you less of a man—it makes you a better one.”_

It’s Time to Redefine Strength

Suppressing emotions damages mental and physical health. It can lead to anger, resentment, or unhealthy habits like emotional withdrawal, overeating, or overexercising.

The path forward starts early. When we teach boys that emotions are valid and asking for help is brave, we shape a healthier future.

Mental health is not a gendered issue—it’s a human one. Therapy helps men move from survival mode into a life of strength, clarity, and emotional balance.