Why More Men Are Embracing Mental Health Support (and Why It Matters)
From a young age, many boys are often taught that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. They are raised with the idea that strength means handling challenges alone, without showing vulnerability or seeking help. This “lone wolf” mentality can lead to isolation and a reluctance to admit when they’re struggling.
Studies show that men are more inclined to resort to substance abuse or risky behaviours as coping mechanisms rather than seeking professional help. On top of this, Men’s Health Forum reports that men are three times more likely than women to die by suicide. Men’s mental health is a topic we should all be shining light on. Together, we can make this world a safer space for self expression and vulnerability.
In this article, we’ll explore a few thought-provoking perspectives to encourage men to open their minds to seeking support.
Empowering Perspectives to Shift Men’s Views on Seeking Professional Support
Strong Historical Figures Sought Support
Throughout history, communities have served as vital support systems for individuals facing challenges. From ancient tribes to modern societies, the strength of a community lies in its ability to provide empathy, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Men, like everyone else, benefit from being part of networks where they can openly share their experiences and receive support without judgement.
Influential figures like Nelson Mandela, Socrates and even Alexander the Great have all demonstrated the importance of seeking guidance and support. Socrates sought wisdom from advisors, believing in the power of shared knowledge. Alexander the Great sought strategic counsel from wise mentors to navigate his conquests. Nelson Mandela, in his pursuit of historical change, sought guidance and support from allies and supporters who shared his vision of justice and equality. These leaders are examples of how seeking support and drawing strength from your community are essential in achieving lasting impact.
Community Support is Primal
Since ancient times, humans have survived and thrived by sticking together in tribes and communities. This teamwork has been essential for our progress, helping us overcome challenges and develop as societies. Sharing knowledge, helping each other out, and feeling like we belong have always been key to our journey of human growth. These bonds have allowed us to build homes, grow food, and protect each other from dangers – essentially laying the groundwork for civilisation.
Even today, in our modern world, these community values remain just as important. The connections we build in our communities sustain us and nourish our soul. They show us that our true power lies not just in what we do alone, but in how we come together, support each other, and grow stronger as a united group.
Nature demonstrates this through the law of synergy: when things work together, they create better results than if they worked alone.
Receiving Support Rewires Your Brain for Achievement and Success
Seeking support through counselling can help transform our mental strength and personal growth. Scientific research shows that therapy has powerful effects on the brain, particularly in enhancing emotional resilience, managing stress, and making clearer decisions. Counselling can rewire our neural pathways, making us better equipped to handle life’s pressures and regulate our emotions effectively (Johnson & Smith, 2019).
Therapy provides a structured space where we can uncover and explore our thoughts and feelings deeply. It encourages vulnerability and helps us understand why we behave the way we do. With support and guidance, we can learn practical strategies to confront challenges head-on, break free from negative thinking, and build healthier relationships with ourselves and others. Therapy isn’t just for fixing problems – it’s for restoring and solidifying our inner foundation.
Seeking support can help us grow and understand ourselves better.
Support gives us tools to handle life’s ups and downs. Therapy isn’t always easy – it can be challenging and sometimes uncomfortable. But through it, we develop resilience and learn to face difficulties with more confidence.
Receiving support can help us solve specific problems we are facing in life, but it’s impact can go far beyond than that. It’s about recognizing our strengths and actively building upon them. It’s a place where we can reflect on our successes, learn from our experiences, and set goals for the future. Choosing to seek help is a brave step toward self-improvement and empowerment. It’s about taking charge of our mental health and investing in our happiness.
“Building resilience” doesn’t mean shouldering burdens alone – it’s having the courage to ask for help when life gets challenging.
Practical tools. No fluff.
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