Men's Issues

While men and women are all subject to a variety of similar issues, there are certain issues that tend to be more related to men than women. Some issues are biologically related, but many of the men’s issues mentioned below have more to do with our society and how men and boys are raised. Remember, parents aren’t the only people responsible for teaching children. Negative emotional habits can also be taught by teachers, coaches, peers, and the parents of peers. They can then be reinforced later in life by significant others, co-workers, and bosses.

Our society teaches men:

• not to cry.
• to deal with issues in a “logical or rational” way.
• that it’s okay to express anger but not sadness.
• that showing emotions makes you appear weak.

Men commonly do not share how they are feeling, and as a result also tend to be out of touch with what they are feeling. There can be a disconnect when it comes to men knowing how they feel and being able to open up in their relationships, or allowing themselves to be sensitive.

Men tend to cope with emotional stress in a variety of different ways. Some men feel safer expressing anger rather than hurt to avoid feeling vulnerable or weak. Others work longer hours to avoid dealing with issues at home. It is also common for men to suffer from addictions and compulsive behaviors as a means of numbing themselves to certain feelings.

When emotions are repressed, suppressed or denied, other behaviors can manifest. These behaviors are not always healthy or appropriate. Some of these mismanaged emotions and feelings can lead to:

• addictions
• anger management issues
• avoidance behavior
• impulse control / compulsion issues
• intimacy issues
• relationship / relational difficulties
• sexual problems

These manifestations of emotional suffering can seriously impact a man’s life. Men can lose relationships, jobs, and even their own self confidence as a result of engaging in these negative attitudes, behaviors, and habits. If you feel like you are losing control of yourself or your life, consulting a professional counselor can be the first step in regaining control. Sometimes the best way to break the cycle is to get to the root of the problem -- to delve deep into yourself and uncover your emotional hardships. It is perfectly natural to experience emotional pain, and a counseling office is a safe place where you can be free to express it without fear of being judged. Our counselors can help you work through life’s traumas and experience your full potential by facing your issues, working through them, and recharging your sense of self and wellbeing.