Anxiety Amongst Men in Families
Anxiety is something that affects people of all ages, sexes, and backgrounds. While it can be difficult for anyone to deal with, anxiety can be particularly difficult for men in a family to cope with. Men are often expected to be the strong, silent type, and when anxiety sets in, it can be hard for them to express themselves in a healthy way. Men are often expected to be the breadwinners and protectors in a family, and when they suffer from anxiety, it can be hard for them to meet these expectations.
So why are we discussing feelings of anxiety amongst men?
Anxiety can lead to feelings of guilt and frustration. It can also lead to a fear of failure and a sense of inadequacy. Anxiety can also lead to problems in communication, as men may be hesitant to open up or express their feelings. When men suffer from anxiety, it can affect their relationships with their partners, children, and other family members. Anxiety can cause them to withdraw and become distant, making it difficult for them to connect with their loved ones. They may also become overly critical of themselves and others, leading to arguments and conflict.
Men may also feel ashamed of their anxiety and attempt to hide it from others. This can lead to feelings of isolation and a sense of being misunderstood. It can also make them feel like they have to “toughen up” and put on a brave face, which can be exhausting and overwhelming.
The Current Social Perspective
Men’s worry and expectations of men conflict in a way that is both irrational and socially conditioned. Instead of using formal mental health services to help them with their issues, men who are anxious frequently rely on problem-solving techniques (such as facing difficulties head-on, looking for solutions, and seeking knowledge) and try to manage their anxiety on their own. This may be done in part to avoid or lessen anxiety-related feelings of shame, guilt, and helplessness. Men who experience anxiety often hide features that they feel don’t live up to or contradict gendered ideals of masculinity out of self- and social-acceptance worries (i.e., decisiveness, rationality, coolness, calm and detachment).
Impact of Such Anxiety on Families
For instance, it has been demonstrated that the socio-emotional development of children, including prosocial behaviours, emotion regulation, and self-control, is negatively impacted by a father’s depression. In other words, a child who has a depressive father is more likely to struggle with social skills, behaviours management, and emotional regulation.
Depressed males are also more prone to escalate family disputes over time, which can make their depression worse. The simplest way to understand anxiety is as an unstable foundation that, like a building, may have an impact on anything or anybody that depends on it. According to research, a child’s anxiety is typically predicted by the anxiety of the father. Parents who are a concern exhibit worried responses and problem-solving techniques. Children frequently pick this up and imitate it.
Conclusion
It is important to remember that anxiety is a real issue and that it is important to seek help. Men who are struggling with anxiety should talk to their doctor or a mental health professional. There are also support groups and online resources available to help men cope with their anxiety. These resources can provide men with the tools and support they need to manage their anxiety in a healthy way. By recognising and addressing the anxiety suffered by men in a family, we can help create a healthier and more connected environment for everyone.
