THERAPY FOR MEN IN OC

Getting support isn’t a sign of weakness, but of personal empowerment towards profound change.

Our culture in western society has fostered and left many men with questions regarding personal identity. Men are taught from childhood to hide their feelings and weaknesses in favor of remaining stoic and in control at all times. This belief system that men are somehow less manly or weak for showing emotions or expressing their feelings has caused generations of men to question their inner experience and struggle to make meaning in their lives. 

Left unresolved or unaddressed, past wounds and other issues may manifest as mental health issues later on. Depression and anxiety often accompany this search for understanding in how to solve their own problems. Men ages 15-24 and over the age of sixty are more likely to commit suicide compared to the rest of the population.

Despite being taught “to go it alone” many men find that they do in fact need support for the challenges that life brings them. Men may experience different concerns in the various aspects and stages of their lives which are valid and worth exploring. 

18-30: WHAT YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING

• Feeling lonely or isolated despite remaining technologically connected 24/7

• Feeling directionless or having trouble finding meaning or purpose in daily life

• Feeling like an outsider or imposter despite academic or career achievements

• Difficulty finding one’s way or identity outside of family or relationships

• Trouble owning autonomy and independence from family of origin

• Feeling “stuck” or stagnant that life isn’t going as it should

• Struggles with emotional intimacy and commitment

30-50: WHAT YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING

• Feelings of unease or discomfort associated with aging including anxiety, sadness, or depression

• Struggling to cope with a new identity whether it be career, retirement, or as a parent

• Intense feelings of nostalgia for your younger years

• Thinking your best years are behind you

• Feeling unfulfilled, empty, or bored with life

• Desire to make impulsive changes or out of character decisions

50+: WHAT YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING

• Difficulty coping with the physical and emotional effects of maturity

• Difficulty relating to others, especially younger generations

• Feeling diminished, overlooked, or brushed aside

• Loss of potency or desire

• Trouble relating to children or partners

• Crises of self and identity

• Feeling in competition with other men and women

• Trouble finding meaning in life after retirement or raising children

• Existential worry or dread

• Hopelessness about the future

• Feeling like you’re a burden on others

• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

While each man’s experience and struggles are unique, it’s helpful to remember that you’re not alone.  The first step towards healing is reaching out, and it takes strength and courage to seek outside support. Regardless of what you were told, you no longer have to suffer in silence.