ROdown Blog
Real men talk about their feelings
Life is not so simple and easy it helps to be able to talk to someone about how we are feeling, and for a guy this can be hard.
We grow up in a culture that teaches us to handle problems ourselves, to show 'initiative' and independence. Magazines, movies and all promote the image of a macho man that never shows weakness or a 'soft side.' Coupled with a bunch of guy friends, feelings are not a topic commonly discussed.
This is especially problematic when young men are dealing with issues like depression. It would help if they could talk to someone about how they are doing, if they are coping, and what they need help on. But does this happen? In my opinion, us guys are too guarded we're always making sure that we aren't exposing any evidence of a softer side.
This is all based on my own experiences and opinions. But what do you guys think? I'm especially interested in how you would engage with young men. I've found that playing sports, or doing something practical is the best way to talk to another guy (being a guy myself).
Or doing something/talking to another guy 1 on 1 (i.e. without the judging eyes of the group).
What do you guys think?
Do young men talk about their feelings or seek help for problems?
If they do, with who? How would you engage with a guy friend?
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2 Comments
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DJT
over 1 year ago
Reply ReportHey maninashed, thanks for sharing.
Thats real encouraging to hear. I guess with some guys, all it takes is for someone to take the first step and share a bit about themselves.
maninashed
over 1 year ago
Reply ReportAs a young gay adult suffering from bipolar disorder i know how difficult it is to talk about problems with other guys. I have a friend at work who is from the country and was involved in the surf culture, he was taught to always 'man up' in life. He admitted to me one day of suffering from depression. I think by sharing my own experiences with him beforehand really allowed him to open up to me. I was the only person he had ever confided in apart from his girlfriend at the time.