Why Men Find It Difficult to Talk About Their Problems

Why Men Find It Difficult to Talk About Their Problems

Published On: June 28, 2017

Most men find it difficult to express their emotions or to openly discuss their problems. Part of the reason they withhold and keep things to themselves has to do with their perceptions of society norms.

Society often places the added stress on men to be the strong, central role model everyone can turn to in times of need and support. Expressing one’s feelings in the company of other men is often perceived as a sign of weakness or results in being picked on and teased by their friends and peers because it is not considered “masculine.”

Another reason men have struggles with expressing themselves can extend to their childhood. It is during these formative years, they could have been taught in general, men should not express themselves emotionally and should suppress feelings that will make them appear frail and weak.

These two reasons can lead to men suppressing their true feelings and emotions so much so, they start to lose touch with themselves. In turn, this can lead to other types of unfavourable responses to compensate, due to their inability to really identify what is bothering them, and could include:

• Alcoholism
• Drug Addition
• Anger Issues
• Abusive Issues
• Aggression Issues

Furthermore, scientific research has shown the inability to be in harmony with our emotions and the ability to deal with them in a productive manner can increase anxiety and stress, as well as result in increased illnesses and health problems. Additionally, the risks for stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, and heart disease are much higher.

Another common “side effect” of bottling up emotions and problems, is for some men to scoff at the idea of talking to a counsellor. The mere thought of openly sharing every aspect of what is bothering them with a complete stranger can be a major obstacle. There are even men, who find the notion of talk therapy ridiculous because they do not truly understand the benefits a professional counsellor can provide.

The primary thing to remember is counselling is confidential. You do not have to tell anyone you are seeing a counsellor. Nor is it a sign you are weak simply because you want to seek help and learn how to develop the skills needed to address and resolve issues in a positive and enlightened manner.

Even if you are “on the fence” and not sure whether counselling will help, it does not hurt to schedule an initial consultation appointment, where you are able to ask questions about counselling, how counselling sessions can help, and share your expectations of what it is you want to accomplish or overcome.

Here at Bayridge Counselling Centre, we offer professional counselling solutions for a variety of men’s issues, relationship issues, life coaching, spiritual issues, anger management, and more. Please feel free to call 905-319-1488 to arrange an initial consultation appointment today!

For more information, visit us at any of our Counselling Centers in Burlington, Brampton, Hamilton, Grimsby, Mississauga, Muskoka, Oakville, St. Catharines and Kitchener/Waterloo.