Though many of us have a hard time admitting it, we too need a little help now and then. The average life expectancy for men in the U.S. is seven years shorter than that for women. Infant males are more likely to have complications during delivery and have a higher tendency toward birth defects than females. We have higher rates of addiction and completed suicide than women. We have fewer friendships than women and a limited social support system. We have difficulty identifying feelings, much less talking about them.
However, I have witnessed a trend over the past twenty years; more men are seeking therapy. Personally, I see more male than female clients. This was not typical for me early in my career. More men call to make their own appointments. Men today seem easier to keep engaged in therapy and less embarrassed about seeking help.
Establishing a solid action plan early in treatment can help men feel more empowered in the treatment process. We are goal oriented and want to see results. We are less likely to find benefit in simply talking about our feelings. Identifying clear goals gives us a greater sense of control in the process. It is still important to help male clients identify and understand emotions, but he is more likely to enter treatment focused on facts.Posted by Steven Davidsonat 6:33 AM