5 Reasons Why Men Should See a Therapist

For some reason, there are a lot of men who have an issue with going to therapy. Maybe its because therapy opens the conversation for men to talk about there feelings and in our society men having feelings is a sign of weakness. Although the definition of masculinity is changing, there is still a stigma against men going to therapy. We spoke with Dr. Sanam Hefeez and she provided us with 5 reasons why men should see a therapist.

“As the role of men in the workplace, in relationships, and in society has changed to more strongly reflect equality, some men who have long existed in a male-dominated environment may find it difficult to adjust to societal changes and may experience stress and frustration when certain attitudes or behaviors are challenged. Stress at one’s job, in familial relationships, or as a result of one’s pursuit of romantic relationships and intimacy may also lead a man to seek therapy. According to a recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) survey, over 14% of American men experience some type of mental health challenge, and more than 3% of men face serious mental health challenges.” Dr. Sanam Hefeez

Therapy vs. Antidepressants

You should think of antidepressants as the remedy of last resort. Sure, they can be useful in some cases. But they also come with the potential for side effects, including insomnia, weight gain, and sexual problems. And they’re already overprescribed in the United States: A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry reported that nearly 70 percent of people taking antidepressants did not meet the criteria for clinical depression. But more to the point, a therapist can help you develop strategies for overcoming any negative thought patterns and destructive behaviors you might have, and that’s something no pharmaceutical remedy can do.

You want to make a good marriage great – Many relationships are functional but are no longer fun. Couples counseling can help improve communication and strategize ways to return passion and excitement to a marriage.

Challenges Related to Fatherhood

Fatherhood, while often a great source of joy, may cause stress and anxiety to develop in both parents. Possible sources of stress might include:

New responsibilities, such as diaper changing, feeding, and providing constant care, which may take time to adjust to. Limited paternity leave. Some fathers may wish to spend more time with the newborn and experience frustration because they cannot be as supportive to their partner as they wish. Sleep deprivation, which is likely to affect both parents. Financial difficulties due to increased food and medical costs, plus other expenses, which are likely to place stress on both partners.

Therapy for your sex life

When do you most feel like getting busy: When you’re happy and relaxed, or when you’re stressed and tense? Exactly. Studies show that anxiety and depression can make men more likely to go limp in the bedroom. In fact, ED meds seem to be more effective when combined with therapy, according to researchers in Switzerland. And if the problem stems from sexual anxiety, counseling can help you communicate and empathize with your partner—a strategy that can ultimately relieve some of the performance pressure.

You have anger management issues

Anger is a basic emotion that is central to the survival of our species. However, when things get out of hand, it’s important to use things like these methods to control your anger, particularly when it is having a significant impact on the quality of your life and those around you. Feeling angry is a natural human response to certain life experiences, and it occurs particularly at times when we come under attack, feel deceived, insulted or frustrated. Anger helps to relieve built-up energy and tension. We are programmed to express anger from birth, yet in some cases, this perfectly healthy emotion can become excessive and may be a symptom of more complex issues such as mental health problems. When it gets out of control, anger can turn destructive and can significantly impact quality of life – affecting your career, your relationships, and overall well-being. Anger management therapy is designed to help men learn how to control their anger more effectively and lessen the impact their anger problems are having on their lives.

For more information visit NYC Neuropsychologist at www.comprehendthemind.com

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