Navigating men’s health and the self-care journey
Many men over 40 grew up in a culture of "just get on with it." It’s a phrase that encouraged resilience but often discouraged emotional expression. Back then, "getting on with it" might have meant going outside to kick a ball around. Today, things are a little different, and perhaps go a little deeper: connecting with our emotions, being vulnerable, and sharing how we feel with others—especially with other men.
By Clinical Psychologist Matt Stanton
For many, this is uncharted territory. As boys, vulnerability wasn’t part of the playbook. By the time we hit 40, we often find ourselves juggling multiple roles: provider, father, partner, and friend. These roles come with immense responsibility and balancing them can be overwhelming. Add to that the cultural pressure to keep emotions bottled up, and it’s no surprise that frustration and burnout become frequent companions.
The importance of self-care
One of the most important realisations men can have is this: taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Self-care involves looking after your physical and mental health. It starts with the basics, like scheduling regular medical checkups and ensuring you’re staying active. Exercise and sleep, in particular, are powerful tools for maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing.
Finding time for exercise isn’t always easy, but it’s possible with a little creativity. Early mornings, lunch breaks, or even family workout sessions can fit into your routine. Beyond physical benefits like improved fitness, regular exercise can:
Lift your mood
Reduce anxiety and stress
Improve your sleep
Strengthen social connections
These benefits ripple out, improving your relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.
Overcoming emotional barriers
Opening up about struggles can feel terrifying, especially if you’ve spent a lifetime suppressing emotions. But it’s crucial to acknowledge when you’re feeling overwhelmed or isolated. Mental health challenges don’t just go away on their own. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, joining a support group, or working with a mental health professional, these steps can help you process emotions and build resilience. As a psychologist, I’ve experienced first-hand the challenges of addressing vulnerability in a society that often invalidates emotional expression in men. But I’ve also seen how transformative it can be when men take those first steps toward self-awareness and growth.
Building a healthier, happier you
If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by unhealthy habits or poor sleep quality, know that you’re not alone. At Life Matters, we’re here to help you feel safe and heard. We offer relatable strategies, consistent support, and straight-up talk to help you rebuild your mental health.
Life Matters Disclaimer
All content in our article is published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional psychological advice and should not be relied on as personal advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified psychologist with any questions you may have regarding your mental health.
