Why Do Men Find It Hard to Talk About Mental Health

Breaking the Silence

For many men, talking about mental health can feel uncomfortable or even impossible. There’s often pressure to “man up,” “get on with it,” or avoid showing any kind of vulnerability. These messages may come from family, peers, work culture, or society at large and over time, they can create a silence that feels heavy to carry. 

Common Barriers Men Face

• Stigma: Worries about being judged or seen as “weak.”

• Upbringing: Many men were taught from a young age not to cry, not to complain, and to keep emotions bottled up.

• Responsibility: Feeling like you should be the one holding everything together for others.

• Not Knowing Where to Start: When you’ve spent years keeping things inside, opening up can feel overwhelming.

Why Talking Helps

Bottling things up doesn’t make them go away in fact, it often makes the pressure build until it shows up in anger, stress, or physical symptoms. Talking about what’s going on:

• Relieves pressure and gives you perspective.

• Helps you see patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.

• Makes space for healthier coping strategies.

• Reminds you that you don’t have to carry everything alone.

  
  

Counselling Can Be Different

Counselling isn’t about being judged, fixed, or told what to do. It’s a safe space where you can talk openly, at your own pace with someone who listens. For many men, that first step of speaking up feels huge, but it’s often the start of real relief and change.

If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. I offer a safe and supportive space in Plymouth and online to help men and anyone to explore what’s going on and find a way forward.

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