You may have been taught at a young age to ignore your feelings and not speak out about how you really feel; and if you did, you were ridiculed or punished. You were indoctrinated to believe that men are supposed to be tough and independent and that any show of sensitivity was a sign of weakness, and that weakness could be exploited. Many men are suffering deep, emotional pain in silence. Rather than asking for help, men are more likely to swallow their hurt. But, pushing that hurt down just makes it pop back up elsewhere and take on other expressions. Those other expressions might show up as overworking, aggressive behavior, falling into addiction, having affairs, or participating in risk-taking activities. Sublimating the original problem takes on new life … increased stress, depression, anxiety, abnormal or deviant behaviors. These are escapes into darkness far more painful and deep-rooted than the initial feelings that precipitated them. Our rapidly changing social structure and our concept of masculinity seem to be undergoing constant redefinition. Male identity confusion has created an environment where men are losing sight of their needs, dreams, and desires. How do we juggle being responsible, assertive, and strong, with being caring, sensitive, and open? Because we don’t want to air our “dirty laundry” or appear fragile to others close to us, we hesitate to share our frustrations. I understand that for many men, therapy might be considered a “for women only” activity. Some might consider therapy an admission of weakness. I think we know deep down that argument has no basis in reality.