Emotional Pain : The Silent Struggle of Men

Welcome back to "The Male Mind: Unfiltered," where we dive deep into the complexities of masculinity and relationships. Today, we're tackling an often overlooked but crucial topic: how men deal with emotional pain. As a society, we're gradually becoming more aware of the importance of mental health, but there's still a long way to go, especially when it comes to understanding and supporting men in their emotional journeys. 

For generations, men have been conditioned to believe that showing emotions is a sign of weakness. This cultural expectation often leads men to suppress their feelings, even when they are experiencing deep emotional pain. The stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability creates a barrier that prevents many men from seeking the help and support they need.

As I write, reflecting on the intricacies of human existence, I find myself approached by the lines of countless men silent struggles. Their emotional pains weigh upon them at every waking day, staying just out of view from an unobservant world. In a world where boys are taught to be strong and stoic, the emotional expression seems to stain the air of a weakness. When does it become unbearable to bare the weight of this expectation?

This is particularly evident in India, where traditional masculinity is deeply engraved into its culture. A study in the Journal of Affective Disorders reported that though Indian men are much less likely to seek treatment, it is likely that they experience depression and anxiety more often than women. (1)The stigma surrounding mental illness in India restricts many of its male citizens from receiving potential treatment since "men do not want to be perceived as weak or vulnerable if they admit to having trouble with their emotions.".

I can recall a conversation between me and my friend, Rohan, whom I knew for months had been suffering from depression. He lost his job, and he felt that his relationship was about to break off; the situation was so challenging that it kept him in a shroud of despair. Yet in this state of deep pain, he hesitated to seek out some help to overcome his situation. "I don't want to look like a wimp," he said. "I do not want people to think that I am unable to handle my feelings." It was a line I had heard before, and one I knew to be more than a little too familiar to all men.

Another article published in Journal of Men's Health discovered that men from India have a tendency to engage in risk-taking behaviors, such as substance abuse and violence, to sort through their emotions. (2) This is something I've repeatedly witnessed since the male behavior reflects them trying to find healthy ways to express and process their feelings.

It is not an Indian issue only, though. According to a Journal of Clinical Psychology research report, men are more susceptible to depression and anxiety in the United States but are less likely to go to the doctor. (3)They also suggest that this is owing to male's conditioning as independent and private being so he cannot ask for help as one tends to when in need.

Reflecting on these studies and the stories of men like Rohan makes me realize that emotional pain, though unique to women or any particular culture or society, is a universal human experience. It is a basic aspect of the human condition, and we shall have to recognize and then address this situation of emotional pain for all humanity to create a more compassionate and supportive world.

The consequences of suppressing emotions can be severe. A study conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) found a strong correlation between emotional suppression and physical health problems in men, including cardiovascular issues and weakened immune systems. The research, published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, underscores the importance of addressing emotional well-being as part of overall health.

But there is hope. Slowly but surely, conversations about men's mental health are emerging in India. Organizations like MAVA (Men Against Violence and Abuse) are working to challenge traditional notions of masculinity and create safe spaces for men to express their emotions. Their workshops and support groups have helped countless men.

So, what do we do for the likes of Rohan who quietly suffers? First and foremost, we have to build a culture that makes men comfortable about more constructive portrayal of their feelings instead of the machoism surrounding them. We have to break up all their notions about masculinity and create avenues where they don't hesitate in seeking help and support.

The journey to emotional well-being is not an easy one, especially in a society that often equates masculinity with emotional stoicism. However, as more men share their stories and seek help, the tide is beginning to turn. Mental health professionals across India are reporting an increase in male clients, signaling a gradual shift in attitudes.

We should acknowledge the fact that emotional pain is something that need not be taken as shame. It's a natural reaction to the stresses and disasters in life and, at one time or another, we all go through it. This could only break the stigma associated with mental health by making the environment more supporting and comprehensive for men opening up and seeking help.

It is only with the acknowledgement and resolution of this silent battle that we can give birth to a world that grants each individual - irrespective of gender or origin - equal compassion, respect, and support. This world would indeed be supportive enough to encourage men to express themselves more positively about their emotions and move ahead and flourish.

At "The Male Mind: Unfiltered," we believe in shedding light on the often overlooked aspects of masculinity and mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional pain, please seek help. There are numerous resources available to support men in their journey towards healing and well-being.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Have you or someone you know experienced the silent struggle of dealing with emotional pain? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below. Let's continue this important conversation and support one another on the path to emotional wellness.

Until next time, stay real and unfiltered.

References:

1. "Depression and anxiety in Indian men: A systematic review", Journal of Affective Disorders, (2018)
2. "Risky behaviors and emotional expression in Indian men: A qualitative study", Journal of Men's Health (2019)
3. "Depression and anxiety in men: A systematic review", Journal of Clinical Psychology, (2017)

Note: The links of the research papers are not provided since they are behind the paywall.