DO MEN NEED HEALING TOO?

One striking Question that has been bothering me for a while: 

DO MEN NEED HEALING TOO?

Yes, absolutely. Men, like women and people of all genders, can benefit from healing. Men may experience a range of emotional, psychological, and physical challenges that can impact their overall well-being, and seeking healing can be an important part of addressing those challenges.

Most men would rather go to the bar than go for therapy. In fact, they would rather go anywhere rather than go for counseling or therapy. Men and women are different, so what’s the big deal that guys avoid counseling? Plenty it turns out. In fact, our lives are at stake. Men suffer silently from depression, they struggle with addiction and they complete acts of suicide far more often than women.

Most men would rather go the bar than go for therapy. In fact, they would rather go anywhere rather than go for counseling or therapy. Men and women are different, so what’s the big deal that guys avoid counseling? The statistics tell us that women are twice as likely as men to attend therapy, even though men face the same kind of issues with mental illness, abuse, and addiction. Men are more likely to complete an act of suicide than women and when they do manage to go, 90% of men report that they have benefitted from their experience with a counselor.

Healing is different for men. Our bodies and our minds are different than women, so it makes sense that we heal differently. 

Some common issues that men may experience and seek healing for include:

Trauma: Men can experience a variety of traumas, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, that can have long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.

Stress and anxiety: Men may experience stress and anxiety related to work, relationships, financial concerns, or other factors, which can impact their mental and physical health.

Depression: Depression can affect anyone, and men may be particularly vulnerable due to societal expectations of masculinity that can discourage vulnerability and emotional expression.

Substance abuse: Men may be more likely than women to engage in substance abuse as a coping mechanism for stress or other challenges, which can lead to addiction and other negative consequences.

Relationship difficulties: Men may struggle with building and maintaining healthy relationships with romantic partners, family members, or friends, which can impact their overall well-being.

By seeking healing, men can learn to address and manage these challenges, improve their mental and physical health, and develop stronger relationships with themselves and others. Healing can take many forms, including therapy, meditation, yoga, support groups, and other practices that promote self-care and self-awareness.

If you are a man seeking healing, there are many resources available to you. Here are some steps you can take:

Reach out for help: 

One of the most important steps in seeking healing is to reach out for help. This can mean talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeking the support of a therapist or counselor, or joining a support group.

Prioritize self-care: 

Taking care of your physical and mental health is an important part of healing. This can include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Practice mindfulness: 

Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help you manage stress and anxiety, increase self-awareness, and cultivate a greater sense of calm and well-being.

Seek professional support: 

Therapy or counseling can be a valuable tool for men seeking healing. A therapist can provide a safe and supportive environment for exploring your emotions, developing coping skills, and setting and achieving goals for your mental health and well-being.

Join a support group: 

There are many support groups for men that can provide a sense of community and connection. These groups may focus on specific issues like addiction recovery, grief and loss, or men's mental health.

Remember, seeking healing is a process that takes time and effort. Be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate this journey.