Trauma is a deeply distressing, emotional, and personal experience that can have lasting scars on a man’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. While trauma does not discriminate by gender, men often face unique challenges when it comes to acknowledging and addressing their traumatic experiences. Understanding trauma and its impact on men can help to lift the burden often felt by men who are afraid to seek out trauma therapy.
The Nature of Trauma in Men
Men can experience trauma from a wide range of sources, including physical or sexual abuse, accidents, natural disasters, military combat, or witnessing violence. Societal expectations and cultural norms often dictate that men should be stoic and resilient, which can make it difficult for them to express vulnerability or seek help, especially in the Midwest area of the country. This can lead to a reluctance to discuss their experiences, feelings, and pain. Furthermore, this reluctance can backfire and exacerbate symptoms over time.
The Impact of Trauma
The impact of trauma on men can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, control issues, and overall lower self-esteem. Depending on the type of trauma, men can develop a more general trauma response or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Â Men may also exhibit anger, irritability, and aggression as a means of coping with their emotional pain. These responses are often misunderstood or overlooked, which can lead to inaccurate diagnoses and interventions.
Barriers to Seeking Help
As noted above, men experience societal pressures not to show weakness and appear ‘stable’ to others both in their homes and the broader community.  This can influence whether a man will reach out for help. A man can only avoid internal stress for so long before it affects other areas of life. Seeking help is not just done for you, but also for those around you.
Individual Trauma Therapist for Men
It is important to create an environment where men feel supported to speak out and receive the therapy they need. Revitalize Mental Health PLLC is one such environment. We offer both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Somatic Experiencing (SE) therapy to support men in their trauma recovery process. Both of these forms of treatment have been proven effective in helping men heal from past trauma. Patience is key to healing trauma. This process cannot be rushed.
Trauma Therapist in Kenosha, WI
No matter where you go or what you do, past experiences of trauma will continue to haunt you. Running only works for so long. Let’s face this pain head-on, together. The human body is resilient and allows for healing to take place. Revitalize Mental Health PLLC focuses on helping men heal from past trauma. Call us at 720.295.6703 or submit an online form here to start the healing process.
