Therapies for men's issues and problems

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 behaviours 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 an individual to seek therapy.

One challenge men may face is the way that symptoms of mental health conditions are experienced. For example, a man who is experiencing depression may be angry and irritable, and men in general have been shown to often be less likely to cry, discuss their feelings, or express internal thoughts of suicide. Post traumatic stress may also lead to anger, as well as aggression, and men with PTSD may be somewhat more likely to cope with symptoms by using drugs or alcohol. Men may avoid seeking help until a point of crisis is reached, fearing that others will see them as weak, but treatment may become more complicated as a result.

While there are no male-specific diagnoses in the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), common issues reported by men seeking therapy include:

• Anger
• Stress, which may present with somatic pains, complaints, or feelings of irritation or frustration
• Work adjustment issues such as procrastination, avoidance, anger, or success sabotage
• Substance dependency or addiction
• Other dependency or addiction—Internet, gaming, gambling, sex
• Body image issues
• Bipolar
• Depression, which might be experienced as boredom, lack of motivation, or feeling that one is blank or "stuck"
• Relationship issues

Some men may experience fear and shame related to preconceived notions of their roles and responsibilities. For example, a man whose employment income is not sufficient to provide for the needs of his family may experience feelings of frustration or emasculation stemming from the belief that he should be able to provide for his family. This may especially be the case when a spouse or partner brings in more income or has a higher-paying job.

Because men are often conditioned by social norms to refrain from showing certain emotions, such as emotional vulnerability, fear, sensitivity, or dependence, they may fear that expressing these emotions will lead them to be perceived as less masculine. However, keeping back these emotions may cause other emotional difficulties, and those who attempt to hold back their feelings may find that health and well-being are negatively affected by the practice.