The Silent Struggle: Why Men Often Hide Addiction and Mental Health Issues 

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This is a great opportunity for us to explore the various cultural and emotional barriers preventing many men from seeking help for addiction and mental health issues. 

Even though our society has made a lot of positive changes, there is still so much for us to learn and address regarding the men and mental health stigma. Unfortunately, far too many men continue to struggle, which results in their silent suffering. 

Barriers to Mental Health Treatment for Men

Most men will admit to hearing that they are supposed to be strong, unemotional, and tough for most of their lives. The impact of toxic masculinity and “tough guy” culture is undeniable, particularly when it comes to the prevalence of mental health issues in men. 

Because of these widespread beliefs, most men shy away from talking about their feelings. Emotional suppression in men is widespread, and they often find it very challenging to seek therapy or even admit they need help. 

Admitting to needing help is very much like admitting that you are not a “real man.” However, the reality is that “real men” are thse who get the support they need. The alternative could lead to long-term mental illness and possibly addiction in men. These are the real-life consequences of untreated mental health issues.

Several barriers exist that may keep men from seeking professional help. 

They are Unsure of How to Ask

A lot of men siply do not know what words they should use to ask for mental health support. They may find their symptoms confusing and difficult to describe verbally. 

They are Taught Not to Cry

From a very young age, boys are often taught that crying is not something that “men” do. For most of them, shedding tears - even if it makes sense in the situation - is frowned upon. Boys who are called “weak” if they cry grow up to become men who strive to hide their emotions to be perceived as strong. 

They Dismiss Their Emotions

A lot of men dismiss any tpe of ailment or illness, whether it is physical or mental. However, most men are more likely to seek treatment for a broken leg than they are for depression or anxiety simply because they fail to see mental health as necessary. 

The Link Between Emotional Isolation and Substance Abuse

It should come as no surprise to learn that toxic masculinity and substance abuse often go hand-in-hand. All human beings - whether they are men or women - need safe places to express how they feel. Any type of emotional isolation requires some type of outlet, and in many cases, that outlet becomes substance abuse. It is very common for men to turn to excessive alcohol use and drug abuse as a way to cope with their feelings. These methods often seem more socially acceptable to them and their peers than going to therapy or talking with their doctor. For a lot of men, hiding depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions becomes the norm as time goes on. 

How Loved Ones Can Encourage Men’s Therapy and Addiction Treatment

One of the most important things family members can do for their male loved ones is to encourage them to be vulnerable. While it might be impossible to completely break the stigma of mental health issues in men in society, families and friends can provide a lot of support individually. 

At Focus Treatment Centers, we believe that men deserve the support they need to break free from the chains of addiction and embrace optimal mental health. If you or someone you love would like to talk about treatment, please contact us or call (423) 308-2560. 

kind