IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A MAN

Kathryn Fortuna
Nov 7, 2024
2 min read

Man up.

Harden up son.

Boys don’t cry….

Mental health issues develop in a toxic culture which leads to...

Gaming

Alcohol | Drugs | Gambling

Pornography

Domestic violence

War

Suicide

W H Y ?

The way we RAISE our men is not working. Why? What can we do?

Mental health in Men and Male suicide is a complex issue influenced by multiple, often interwoven, factors.

3 contributors commonly associated with depression and suicide in MEN

1. Social Expectations and Stigma Around Emotions:

It takes a village to raise our MEN. Many men feel pressure to conform to ‘traditional’ ideas of masculinity, which can discourage them from expressing vulnerability or seeking help for mental health struggles. This societal expectation to “be strong” or “handle it alone” can lead to feelings of isolation and prevent them from reaching out.

2. Financial and Career Pressures:

Economic stress is a significant factor for many men. Financial strain, unemployment, or job insecurity can lead to feelings of failure, loss of identity, and decreased self-worth. For men who may place a strong sense of identity and purpose in their careers, job-related struggles can feel overwhelming.

3. Relationship Struggles and Lack of Support Networks:

Men are often less likely than women to have robust support networks to discuss personal issues. Relationship breakdowns, such as divorce or separation, can be particularly hard, especially if they lack friends or family to turn to. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of despair and hopelessness.

It’s important to approach these factors with sensitivity and to remember that mental health struggles vary widely among individuals.

IS IT TIME TO CHANGE THE WAY WE PARENT OUR SONS and offer TRUE CONNECTION AND EXPRESSION?

It takes a Village to raise a MAN. Offering access to support, open conversations, counselling and mental health education can all play a crucial role in addressing this issue relating to our men and there underlying factors.

Reach out for those that need support. www.annacentre.com