The media portrays men as independent creatures that don’t need help. It shows men as being hardened and self-reliant. Unfortunately, this toxic masculinity is contributing to an epidemic of men who believe they are not able to reach out for help with their sobriety. This article aims to rewrite the narrative of what a strong male is supposed to look like.
The Dangers of Toxic Masculinity
Toxic masculinity is the idea that men have to be tough, strong, and competitive all the time. They’re supposed to be in charge, never show emotions, and always be on top. This kind of thinking can hurt not just males in recovery, but all genders in all situations. This stereotype puts pressure on men to act a certain way, which causes them to feel like they can’t ask for help. Toxic masculinity is dangerous when it comes to drug and alcohol abuse.
This toxic masculinity is a major factor behind males turning to violence as well as to drugs and alcohol. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, traditional male behavior is one of the leading causes of heightened aggression in individuals. This type of aggression is marked by poor impulse control, which is a breeding ground for addiction. Ultimately, this can also lead to men making risky decisions like neglecting their health, ignoring others’ mental health, and being violent. These actions can have serious consequences that over time can put many people at risk.
The fallout from toxic masculinity is huge, and it’s important to assess how it’s impacting one’s life. If someone is dealing with addiction or trying to stay clean, it’s key to recognize how toxic masculinity factors in. Only then can they start evading the stigma surrounding those struggling with substance use and receive help.
How Toxic Masculinity Impacts Men in Recovery
Men in recovery can be severely impacted by the harmful effects of toxic masculinity. The notion that men should handle their problems alone without asking for help can make them feel embarrassed and inadequate when they reach out for support. As a result, they can experience intensified emotions of sadness, loneliness, and self-distrust while battling with the decision to seek assistance.
Feeling Ashamed to Seek Help
Toxic masculinity can also evoke feelings of disgrace and remorse in men as they may interpret their sobriety as a sign of frailty and rehab-seeking as an indication of defeat. This can surge levels of anxiety and pressure as they worry about being judged by their peers.
Not Acknowledging Anxiety
Anxiety and stress are ignored aspects of masculinity, as people assume males do not deal with anxiety as much. However, according to the American Journal of Men’s Health, men’s anxiety may be at the same level as women’s. The journal article indicates that the medical world has underestimated the prevalence of anxiety and depression in men.
Being Afraid to Try and Fail
Furthermore, toxic masculinity can stir up a lack of faith in recovery systems. Men may think that they are not competent enough to complete the program or will inevitably flunk if they attempt to do so. Consequently, they might avoid rehab programs altogether or desert the course midway, depriving themselves of the program’s full benefits.
Steps to Take To Overcome the Stigma
Rewriting the narrative in one’s life and ensuring one is not defined by societal standards is a slow process. However, a person can retrain their brain to see themselves for who they are. These steps are small, but over time, are powerful.
Get in Touch
One of the hardest things about beating the male stigma is asking for help. For many men, it’s tough to admit when they need a helping hand. However, they must reach out and seek support when they need it. They can start by building a strong network of individuals who have their back, personally and professionally. It’s a good idea to talk to friends, family, or qualified experts in mental health who can offer guidance and help them get through their rough patches.
Learn the Ropes
It is important to figure out the science of addiction. That is why we recommend locating the resources that can assist people in dealing with temptations. Once people understand the different tactics they can employ for their recovery, they can begin truly healing. Learning more about addiction can help people grasp why they’re dealing with the struggles they are and provide the skills to stick to sobriety successfully.
Find Heroes
It can be helpful to look for role models who have succeeded in overcoming addiction and seek guidance on how to manage cravings and triggers. It’s easy to fall into negative patterns when dealing with the stigma of masculinity in recovery, so it’s important to surround oneself with positive support.
Implement Self-Care Strategies
It’s essential to take care of oneself by developing healthy habits like eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest. These habits can help reduce stress and anxiety and give someone the energy to focus on their sobriety journey. Also, people need to do things that bring them joy and give them a break from the struggles of recovery.
Speak Up
Don’t be afraid to speak up and challenge harmful stereotypes and expectations surrounding masculinity in recovery. Discuss the issue with friends or professionals to raise awareness and spread the message that seeking help is not weak. Let people know that men can make successful recoveries and that there’s no shame in seeking help.
Support Is Strength
As frightening as asking for help can sometimes feel, it may be your door to complete freedom from addiction. We ask that you please contact our facilities at First Steps Recovery. Our trained specialists want to see you return to happiness and health. No matter where you are in your addiction recovery, we will meet you with the tools needed to succeed.
Men need help as much as women do and there is no shame in seeking health and recovery. You don’t have to buy into society’s idea of toxic masculinity. You deserve compassionate help. You have the capabilities to lead a healthy life, no matter where you are in the process of rehabilitation. Our clinics and specialists are available to help you achieve long-term sobriety. Your addiction is not a life sentence. If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, please consider our facility. We offer holistic therapy approaches that consider all aspects of your journey. We want you to find your happiness again. For more information about our services, please call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836.
Men need help as much as women do and there is no shame in seeking health and recovery. You don’t have to buy into society’s idea of toxic masculinity. You deserve compassionate help. You have the capabilities to lead a healthy life, no matter where you are in the process of rehabilitation. Our clinics and specialists are available to help you achieve long-term sobriety. Your addiction is not a life sentence. If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, please consider our facility. We offer holistic therapy approaches that consider all aspects of your journey. We want you to find your happiness again. For more information about our services, please call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836.
