Charlotte Therapy for Men’s Issues 

Finding a Therapist for Men’s Issues in Charlotte

Are men seeking counseling? What are some of the common issues facing men today? Why is it difficult for men to seek therapy? It is widely acknowledged that men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues. When they do, they generally have the same type of concerns that might lead anyone to seek counseling, such as depression, stress, anxiety, and relationship concerns. Some mental health professionals believe certain social and cultural norms as well as firm beliefs about masculinity may prevent men from seeking help. Many men may also have a more difficult time trusting or opening up to a counselor, a process which is necessary in order to discuss personal issues. Stigma surrounding men asking for help may also make men more reluctant to seek mental health treatment. If you are experiencing any of the above feelings, the counselors at Bareiter Counseling Center in Charlotte can help. They are skilled in working with men in need of counseling in the Charlotte area.

Mental health issues are exhibited differently in men than women, resulting in mental health issues going ignored or untreated. Men may minimize or not even recognize their own emotional pain, causing it to bottle up in ways that may lead to physical health issues. Men are more likely to externalize emotional pain or a mental health issue by showing anger or aggression or engaging in high-risk behaviors. 

Common men’s issues that are helpful to discuss with a counselor are:

Anger & Irritability

Men are taught to hide their emotions, starting from an early age. Hurt and sadness can be expressed as anger. Anger can have disastrous effects on relationships. Learning how to communicate hurt and sadness effectively can repair and strengthen a relationship. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) can help men let go of anger and allow them to instead express the vulnerability needed to have fulfilling relationships.

Intimacy & Affection

Stereotypical ways for men to express love have included buying something, fixing something, or attempting to solve problems for their partners. These things do not create closeness in a romantic relationship. Emotional distancing and lack of communication results in this “show” love by buying something or doing something. Psychotherapy can assist with understanding your love language and that of your partner. It can help with learning new ways of expressing love and intimacy.

Sexual Issues (not relating to medical issues)

Medically explained causes of erectile dysfunction, reduced sex drive, or premature ejaculation are addressed by medical doctors. However, psychological and lifestyle factors can also contribute to these difficulties. A counselor can help by treating underlying anxiety (e.g. performance anxiety) and depression that can contribute too sexual difficulties.

Numbing or Pushing Away Emotions

Some men have been raised in environments where showing any kind of emotion was unacceptable. This can result in avoiding emotions altogether, or even more difficult attempts to control emotions. Counseling can help men identify, learn to deal with, and effectively express emotions in ways that are more adaptive and accepted and can help maintain and strengthen relationships.

Counseling Men On Suicide in Charlotte

The issues of male suicide and suicide prevention for men are becoming an important part of addressing men’s health. Some research indicates the risk of suicide is highest for middle aged men. In the U.S., white men have the highest suicide rate while Native American men have the second highest. 

 A list of potential contributing factors to male suicide includes:

• Lack of mental health treatment for men: Men may be more likely to mask their problems or negative emotions to avoid burdening their loved ones or friends.
• Economic factors: Research indicates that unemployed or recently unemployed men may have more feelings of purposelessness or begin to believe they are not needed.
• Masculine gender roles: Feelings of not being able to protect or provide for their family may contribute feelings of hopelessness and shame that lead to suicide.
• Bullying: For young men in particular, being bullied in person, or online by peers, can drive the man being bullied to suicide.
• Relationship issues: Ongoing trouble with romantic relationships may contribute to male suicide.
• Isolation and depression: Social isolation often lead to mental health issues such as depression, which can become severe and lead to suicide if left untreated.

If you are struggling with strong feelings of shame, hopelessness, guilt, or purposelessness in Charlotte, it is critically important to seek help. A licensed therapist or counselor can help you address, work through, and resolve those feelings. When men are able to address feelings that may lead to suicide, they may also begin to discover solutions and find new paths for moving forward into the future.

Counseling for men is a private, confidential treatment where men can openly communicate and connect to what matters most to them. A counselor can assist with managing healthier ways of being. If you are a man seeking counseling in the Charlotte area, help is available. Contact the experienced therapists at Bareiter Counseling Center in Charlotte today to schedule an appointment.