Ending the Stigma - Why Men Don’t Go To Therapy

Therapy is just like going to your doctor for a check-up and is an important element of a healthy lifestyle. Yet, where a visit to your doctor is viewed as acceptable in society, a visit to a psychologist or counsellor can still have significant stigma attached to it. Unfortunately, studies show the level of stigma around mental health is even higher for those who identify as male. What’s worse, this stigma may be a factor preventing males from seeking help for mental health-related issues.

From an early age, it is engrained in men through culture, belief systems, and media to hold in emotions, “man up”, “be a man”, and “don’t cry.” These statements are examples of toxic masculinity which suggests that men are exclusively tough, strong, and capable. If a man displays emotions or acts in a way that is different from the societal norm they can be criticized, shamed, and judged. Managing emotions is a difficult task for anyone, but not speaking up can make things worse and lead to an increase in mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.

Think of a carbonated drink in a bottle. Every now and then when you quickly open the cap, the bottle can explode and spill everywhere requiring effort to clean up the mess. Sometimes the reason for the explosion is clear—like if you dropped it before opening—and sometimes the reason is not clear—like if it’s been subtly building up during a car ride—but either way, you are left to clean up the mess. But as we know, there is a way that often works to avoid this. If you are careful opening the cap, and slowly allow the pressure to dissipate, it can prevent the explosion.

Emotions, anxiety, depression, and stress can build up in the same way carbonation builds in a bottle. Managing these carefully with the help of a psychologist can be a way to reduce pressure in your life and avoid explosions. Therapy can be a great way to get another perspective, learn coping strategies, make goals, and ultimately manage the build-up of pressure in your life. If you are ready to take the first step on your path to better mental health, you don’t have to do it alone, we are here to help.

Harrison Orpe
Registered Provisional Psychologist