40% of men have never spoken about their mental health – to anyone
Yet again, it has been brought to our attention that men often suffer in silence when it comes to their mental health. Ultimate Fighting Champion competitor Paddy Pimblett has recently spoken out about his best friend committing suicide less than 24 hours before his big fight in the cage. It was a powerful message, especially for men, who may have been taught that showing their emotions is a sign of weakness, which often deters them from opening up on a deeper level or seeking help. Quite often, the only emotion that is deemed as acceptable is anger. However, anger is usually a surface emotion which disguises much deeper feelings namely sadness, fear, rejection or hurt. It can sometimes be difficult for anyone to be vulnerable, depending on their life experiences and upbringing, but getting in touch with how we feel is really important to bringing to light deeper and meaningful conversations that can actually bring relationships closer.
Studies have revealed that men are much less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues they are experiencing, due to a fear of revealing how they might be feeling and talking about their emotions. Admitting to having an issue with your mental health can be a challenge in itself, no matter which gender, so it could be beneficial to find alternative avenues in order to resolve what is happening in your mind. Research has found that men tend to respond more positively to the idea of coaching, where they can discuss how to build their emotional skills and confidence, rather than directly approaching the issue. Additionally, there are many holistic therapies such as hypnotherapy, reiki and Havening, a psychosensory therapy which helps to get to the root cause of an issue, that can you to feel calmer, confident, happier and in control of your life without necessarily having to talk in great detail. Whatever the case, it is important to choose an approach that is right for you. As Paddy Pimblett expressed, he would much rather his friend have cried on his shoulder than suffered alone.
Stephanie Newton is a qualified Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist, Havening and EFT Practitioner based in Wilmslow. Holds the Counselling Level 3 Diploma and is currently studying a Masters in Psychology with the University of Glasgow. Committed and passionate about helping people, Stephanie works with individuals, families and businesses, so they can successfully achieve their goals. She has appeared on Unity Radio, Trafford Sound and has starred in a documentary about Past Life Regression which will be aired in August. If you are suffering from anxiety, would like to lose weight, quit smoking or improve your relationships, you can contact Stephanie through her website: www.diamondwellbeing.co.uk
Further reading:
Cusack, J., Deane, F. P., Wilson, C. J., & Ciarrochi, J. (2006). Emotional expression, perceptions of therapy, and help-seeking intentions in men attending therapy services. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 7(2), 69–82. https://doi.org/10.1037/1524-9220.7.2.69
McKelley, R. A., & Rochlen, A. B. (2007). The practice of coaching: Exploring alternatives to therapy for counseling-resistant men. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 8(1), 53–65. https://doi.org/10.1037/1524-9220.8.1.53
https://www.priorygroup.com/blog/40-of-men-wont-talk-to-anyone-about-their-mental-health
