Are you concerned about your partner’s mental health but unsure how to address it? The stigma surrounding men’s therapy can be a barrier to seeking help, as many men struggle to admit they need support. Learn 5 ways you can encourage your partner to start therapy.
It’s hard to witness someone you care about going through a difficult time, especially when they won’t ask for help. It can be even harder if you’re trying to get a man to consider therapy. How do you get them to see a therapist without being held back by preconceived notions?
Men are often taught that asking for help or showing their emotions is a sign of weakness, something that makes them “less of a man”. Thus, many of them feel reluctant to seek men’s therapy, missing out on a chance to improve and experience the benefits it offers.
Men’s therapy is one of the most effective ways for your partner to start feeling better and work through their feelings while finding solutions that work for them.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), women are more likely than men to receive any kind of mental health treatment. In fact, only 8% of American men received counseling in 2020.
But things have been moving along, as efforts are made to make therapy for men more accepted. You can also contribute to it — by supporting your partner through their struggle and emphasizing the importance of taking action.
Why Are Men More Reluctant About Therapy?
Men’s therapy is a form of counseling aimed at helping men manage a wide range of issues, including job stress, relationship problems, past traumas, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
However, men are less likely to go to therapy. Why is that? One reason is the stigma surrounding men’s therapy. From a young age, boys are often taught that “crying is for girls” and encouraged to handle problems quietly and independently. There are also societal expectations about how men should act, which can limit how they express their feelings, fears, and wants.
Another reason why your partner might oppose meeting a therapist is that he might worry about being the only man in the waiting room or feel embarrassed about opening up and showing vulnerability.
What some people may not know is that more and more successful men are turning to therapy. They’re finding that it helps improve their relationships, ease emotional distress, and bring more meaning into their lives.
How Men’s Therapy Can Help?
Raising awareness about men’s mental health feels more crucial than ever. Research reveals that suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, with a significant gender disparity. Men account for over 75 percent of all suicide deaths.
Additionally, men are more likely to feel angry or aggressive to cope with problems. They are also more likely to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol, which puts them at a higher risk of alcohol and drug abuse.
Seeking men’s therapy can help develop new, healthy coping strategies. It also offers an opportunity for men to share their concerns, challenge self-limiting beliefs, and create space for meaningful relationships and self-care.
A lot of people still believe seeking help is a sign of weakness, but it’s actually an act of courage. It takes strength to admit you need help, even more, when you feel that is not something expected or accepted for you.
So, if you’re worried about your partner’s mental health, check out 5 ways to support them in starting men’s therapy.
5 Ways You Can Encourage Your Partner to Start Men’s Therapy
1. Approach the topic in a non-judgemental way
If your partner hasn’t experienced the benefits of therapy or knows someone who has, they might dismiss the suggestion of talking with a professional. So, avoid making assumptions about how they’re feeling or criticizing them for not waiting to solve their problems.
Instead, be supportive and actively listen to their concerts. By opening up the conversation and creating a safe space for your partner to express their thoughts and emotions you can help them feel more at ease about the idea of starting therapy.
2. Normalize the idea of going to therapy
It’s hard not to care about what people think. Your partner may feel discomfort about admitting they need help because they fear others will think there’s something wrong with them – unfortunately, a common belief for many.
You can share examples of men who openly talk about the value of therapy. Maybe someone you both know or someone your partner admires like a professional athlete or a celebrity. You can also share studies about the benefits of men’s therapy.
Also, you can point out that therapy doesn’t last forever. It is a space where they will work on themselves, not only to address the issues they’re facing in the present but to give them the tools to overcome any future challenges.
3. Take care of your own mental health
If your partner is struggling with anger outbursts, addiction, or depressive moods, these issues tend to spill to those around them – and that includes you.
So, learning how to cope with these challenges and addressing your own needs can be crucial during this process. It is also a great way to set a positive example.
By seeking professional help for yourself, you are demonstrating the value of therapy and taking proactive steps to prioritize your mental health and nurture your relationship.
4. Help find a therapist who specializes in men’s issues
Finding the right therapist is crucial for the success of therapy. Men often deal with unique issues, such as anger and irritability, trouble showing intimacy and affection, avoidance, and emotional distancing.
A therapist who understands and empathizes with these challenges can provide valuable guidance. The key to a successful therapy process is choosing a professional we can trust and that resonates with us and what we’re experiencing.
Did you know we offer a 15-minute free intake call? You’ll get a chance to share your questions and concerns before making a definitive decision. We will also explore your specific needs and preferences to match you with the right therapist. Schedule here!
5. Support your partner through their therapy journey
If your partner is still on the fence about seeking help, just be sure to offer them your unwavering support the whole way through. Understand that it may take time for them to make a decision and take that first step.
Be patient and avoid pressuring them – it could only cause more resistance. Starting therapy is not something anyone can rush, it is something that will happen when the person is ready.
Keep in mind that, while your support can make a significant difference in your partner’s decision, at the end of the day, it is a commitment that they need to be willing to make.
Starting Men’s Therapy In Baltimore, MD
While it can be difficult for men to seek help, avoiding issues for too long only gives them more room to grow and fester. That’s why it is essential to keep working to overcome the stigma around mental health, and especially around men’s therapy.
Our Baltimore therapists are experienced in creating a safe place for men to work on themselves and learn to express emotions in a healthier way.
If you are unsure about taking this step we are here to help! Schedule a free 15-minute consultation and we will work with you to find the therapist that fits your needs!
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