Aggression and depression in men can be interconnected, yet the society has put masculinity on a pedestal, leading many men to hide their struggles.

This article explores the societal expectation of men being tough and strong and how it has led to men struggling to express emotions leading to aggression and depression. The article further uncovers the risks of this mindset and ways in which men can break free from it to live a healthier life.

What is Masculinity?

Masculinity is a term used to describe the traits perceived to be masculine in nature such as being tough, strong, and independent. These traits have been associated with men, and the society expects men to show them in public.

On the other hand, emotions are perceived to be feminine traits, thus making men who show emotions to be less masculine.

Men are often perceived as being emotionally strong and stoic, leading to a perception that they should not express emotions such as fear, sadness, or vulnerability.

Men are expected to keep a straight face even in the most painful circumstances, which can lead to significant emotional turmoil and obsessive behavior that can lead to aggression or even depression.

The Connection between Aggression and Depression in Men

Aggressive behavior can be the result of men not being able to express their emotions correctly. Most men have been taught that in order to be masculine, they should avoid showing feelings of sadness and vulnerability as it shows weakness.

This can put men at risk as it can lead to them having pent-up emotions that can turn into aggression over time.

The inability to express emotions and communicate can also lead to depression.

Men find it difficult to open up about their mental health struggles, leading to them keeping their struggles to themselves, which can lead to even worse mental health struggles.

Many men think that aggression is an excellent way to manage emotional turmoil, which is a perception heavily reinforced by societal gender norms.

However, this is not only unhealthy, but it can also be dangerous to the individual and those around them.

Breaking Free from the Stigma of Masculinity

To break free from the stigma surrounding masculinity, men need to understand that it is alright for them to be human and that they are allowed to feel emotions.

The society has made men feel that they are less manly if they express emotions, which can lead to self-doubt and harming oneself and others.

Men can learn to express their emotions healthily by seeking help from a professional therapist, by talking to trusted friends and family, or finding a support group where they can talk freely without judgment.

Taking care of one’s mental health is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of bravery.

The Risks of the Stigma of Masculinity

The stigma of masculinity has several risks that can lead to life-threatening situations not just for the men, but also for their families and friends.

The expression of emotions and mental health struggles should not wear the tag of being feminine traits as everyone can be vulnerable at times, not just women.

Therefore, it’s crucial that men learn to communicate their mental health struggles with friends, family, therapists, or support groups.

This is important as the person can get the help they need and save themselves from a worsening mental state that could lead to aggression or depression.

The Solution to the Hidden Costs of Masculinity

The solution to the hidden costs of masculinity is a shift in societal perceptions of masculinity.

The society should not put pressure on men to live up to certain expectations and feel ashamed or less of a man if they express their emotions or mental health struggles.

Men should be encouraged to seek help when needed without fear of being seen as having less masculine traits.

The society can support this by creating a safe space for men to talk about their struggles, increasing awareness through campaigns and educational programs and creating equal opportunities for expression of emotions from both genders.

Conclusion

Aggression and depression in men are interconnected, and the stigma around masculinity prevents men from seeking the help they need.

The societal expectation of men being tough and strong places immense pressure on men to hide their struggles, leading to pent-up emotions that can cause aggressive behavior or depression.

Breaking free from the stigma requires men to understand that they are allowed to feel emotions like everyone else and can seek help without feeling ashamed.

Creating a safe space for men to communicate their struggles without judgment is crucial to eliminating the hidden costs of masculinity.