What You Can Expect When Seeking Therapy for Men’s Issues

Research shows that over six million men suffer from depression, and nearly twenty million men struggle with an anxiety disorder. In addition, men are more likely to have substance use disorders, schizophrenia, and die from suicide.

While we’re becoming more societally aware of mental health, the issues men face often go undetected and undiagnosed. As a result, many men find themselves struggling in silence.

With that in mind, seeking therapy for men’s issues can be one of the best, proactive decisions you make for your emotional well-being. Let’s get into what you can expect. 

What Are Some Common Goals for Therapy?

How do you know what to work on in therapy? How do you know which issues or symptoms to address first?

Upon starting therapy, you and your therapist will discuss the concerns affecting your everyday life. Together, you will collaborate on the best goals for your treatment. That said, here are some common reasons men enter therapy. 

Improved Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem can be a symptom of depression or anxiety, but it often impacts every area of your functioning. For instance, it may compromise how safe or connected you feel in relationships. It can also stunt your ability to take necessary risks in the workplace. 

Therapy can address the triggers affecting your self-esteem. You and your therapist will also review implementing reasonable coping skills that can improve your confidence. 

Relationship Issues

Healthy relationships require appropriate boundaries and open communication. Unfortunately, many people struggle in these areas, causing them to hurt their loved ones unintentionally. 

Therapy can help you improve these important skills, allowing you to feel more confident in managing conflict resolution with others. 

Trauma Resolution

70% of adults report experiencing at least one type of trauma during their lifetime. It is no surprise that trauma can severely impact both your emotional and physical well-being.

Trauma therapies, such as EMDR, provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, explore, and heal from your distressing symptoms. 

When Should Men Seek Therapy?

There is no right or wrong time to enter therapy. You don’t need to have a specific diagnosis or even a set reason to talk to someone. 

With that in mind, men may benefit from professional support if you:

• Feel like you cannot adequately manage your daily responsibilities.

• Struggle with intimacy or trust in interpersonal relationships.

• Use mood-altering substances to cope with your emotions. 

• Need support navigating significant life transitions (birth of a child, graduation, marriage).

• Feel resentful, angry, or insecure with yourself or others.

• Feel stuck or trapped in trauma from your past.

What Should You Expect in Therapy?

No two therapy services are identical, as each person has unique needs and goals for their treatment. However, you can expect to follow a relatively predictable flow in your work.

Beginning Stages 

Therapy begins with an informed consent process. During this time, your therapist will review the expectations for treatment and potential risks and benefits. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions about your care.

Building rapport with your therapist can take some time, so keep in mind that you may feel anxious, guarded, or uncertain at the beginning. This is fairly typical, but it’s essential to address them if you have concerns.

Middle Stages 

The middle stages of therapy largely consist of “doing work.” During this time, you will dive into your treatment goals and spend most of your sessions directly discussing, exploring, or reviewing your identified issues. In addition, your therapist may ask you to work on specific issues or complete homework assignments in-between your sessions. 

Sometimes, therapy can feel worse before it feels better. This phenomenon often occurs due to gaining insight into yourself and your pattern. 

Progress is not linear, and it’s normal to experience some setbacks or regressions. Try to be honest about what’s going on with your therapist to ensure you get the right support you need.

End Stages 

Therapy usually ends once you have met your treatment goals and feel comfortable implementing coping skills in your daily life. In some cases, your therapist may reduce the frequency of your sessions until you officially terminate your work together.

The length of treatment can vary per individual. Some people benefit from just a few sessions, whereas others may need more long-term support. Furthermore, you may start and stop therapy at different points in your life. 

Final Thoughts

Seeking therapy for men’s issues can feel vulnerable or scary. That’s a normal reaction- after all, opening up to someone new may feel daunting.

However, many people find that therapy offers tremendous support and guidance. At Lakeside Counseling, we help men of all ages with depression, anxiety, trauma, significant life transitions, and more. We are here for you or your loved ones. Contact us today to learn more!