Many men struggle with conventional talking therapy, often finding it challenging to open up about their feelings. This discomfort can stem from social conditioning and the intimidating nature of face-to-face conversations. In this blog, we will explore alternative approaches that can make discussing mental health more comfortable for men, such as engaging in side-by-side activities and encouraging open discussions in male-dominated spaces. By adapting our methods, we can help men feel more at ease and reduce the stigma around mental health.
why men might struggle with conventional talking therapy
It is no secret that men face unique challenges in addressing their mental health. One recurring theme is the difficulty many men experience with starting conversations about their feelings. Although the message encouraging men to talk about their mental health is undoubtedly correct, the traditional methods of engaging in these discussions often pose significant barriers.

The Challenges of Conventional Therapy
One of the primary hurdles for men in conventional talking therapy is the setting itself. Typical therapy sessions involve face-to-face interactions where individuals are expected to make eye contact and engage in close, personal conversations. For many men, this environment can be intimidating and uncomfortable, leading to feelings of unease and reluctance to participate.
Eye contact, often seen as a sign of honesty and engagement, can be a significant deterrent for men who feel vulnerable discussing their emotions. The pressure to maintain eye contact during a deeply personal conversation can amplify feelings of exposure, shame and discomfort. This setting might be perceived as confrontational, further deterring men from opening up.
Social Conditioning and Vulnerability
Society often conditions men to view emotional vulnerability as a weakness. From a young age, many boys are taught to suppress their emotions and to “man up” in the face of adversity. This cultural norm can result in deep-seated beliefs that discussing feelings is a sign of fragility or failure. Consequently, men may avoid talking about their mental health issues out of fear of being judged or appearing weak.
Shame is another significant factor. Admitting to mental health struggles can be perceived as an acknowledgment of failure to cope, which can be especially hard for men who are expected to be tough and self-reliant. The stigma surrounding mental health, coupled with social expectations of masculinity, creates a substantial barrier to seeking help.
Alternative Approaches to Facilitate Conversations
To encourage men to open up, it is essential to consider alternative approaches to conventional talking therapy. Creating environments where men feel less exposed can significantly ease the process of initiating conversations about mental health.
One effective strategy is to avoid face-to-face settings. Activities that involve side-by-side interaction, for example, a car ride with a friend or a round of golf can provide the right context for a man to start talking about his mental health. The key is to create a more comfortable atmosphere in settings that allow for conversation without the pressure of direct eye contact, making it easier for men to discuss their feelings.
The focus on a shared activity rather than the conversation itself can help reduce feelings of vulnerability and shame. This approach leverages the distraction of the activity to facilitate a more natural and less intimidating dialogue.
Building a Supportive Environment
It is also important to build environments where men feel supported and understood. Encouraging open discussions about mental health in male-dominated spaces, such as sports clubs, workplaces, and community groups, can help normalise these conversations. Peer support networks and group activities focused on mental health awareness can provide a sense of solidarity and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.
Educational campaigns targeting men, highlighting that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness, can also play a crucial role. Sharing stories of men who have successfully navigated their mental health challenges can provide relatable role models and inspire others to seek help.
Conclusion
Men’s reluctance to engage in conventional talking therapy is rooted in a combination of discomfort with face-to-face settings and social conditioning that stigmatizes emotional vulnerability. To address these challenges, it is essential to explore alternative approaches that create a more comfortable and supportive environment for men to discuss their mental health.
By recognising and adapting to these unique needs, we can help men feel more at ease with starting conversations about their mental health, ultimately leading to better outcomes and a reduction in the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Encouraging men to talk about their feelings is only the first step; we must also ensure that the ways we facilitate these conversations are accessible and effective.
In this article, you learned about the unique challenges men face with conventional talking therapy and how alternative approaches can facilitate more comfortable discussions about mental health. You came wondering why traditional methods might not work and now you know how social conditioning and therapy settings can deter men from opening up.