Why Men Struggle Asking For Help
The Silent Struggle: Men Seeking Help
Studies show that men struggle in seeking help when their lives and relationships are in trouble, with men being less likely to seek support in virtually every area when compared to women.
I've said many times over the last decade that most men will watch their world burn down around them before reaching out for help.
So why is that?
There are many factors but shame and embarrassment within our culture play a role. Society expects men to be strong and self-reliant, leaving little room for vulnerability. Seeking help, even when it is about benign aspects, like time management, mindset, and wanting more focus, may be seen as undermining masculinity, appearing weak, and not being perceived as capable of handling his lot in life.
There are societal expectations and gender roles placed on men. Even now, in this woke agenda, men are expected to still be problem-solvers and providers, creating pressure to project competence. Admitting the need for help threatens self-perception and fearing judgment further hinders seeking support.
Many men have also been chastised, shamed, and teased for asking for help from the ones they thought they could trust the most. The emotional damage can leave an indelible scar for sharing at a deep level again.
And lastly, most men don't know where to turn for help. If they knew that their privacy, confidentiality, and trust were honored and that solutions tailored to them are available, they'd be more open to exploring their options.
Here are five steps to empower men to seek help:
1️⃣ Normalize Help-Seeking: Encourage open conversations about life's challenges, personal growth, and mental health to reduce stigma and create a culture that supports seeking help.
2️⃣ Challenge Stereotypes: Redefine masculinity to include emotional intelligence and vulnerability. Promote pro-active male archetypes as role models.
3️⃣ Education and Awareness: Increase awareness of the benefits of seeking help, share success stories, and highlight positive outcomes to shift perceptions.
4️⃣ Accessible Resources: Provide easy access to helplines, counseling, coaching, and support groups tailored for men to remove barriers.
5️⃣ Lead by Example: Men who have sought help can inspire others by sharing their stories and demonstrating the positive impact of seeking support.
In my opinion, having a coach is the ideal solution for addressing a man's life, business, and relationship challenges. It's the very reason I am "The Coach For Men". One of my passions is to create a scenario where men seeking help is seen as a sign of true strength and courage.
By breaking down barriers, we foster healthier relationships, stronger connections, and more remarkable men are actualized.
You've got this!
Be Remarkable!
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