As of 2015, almost two-thirds of worldwide suicides are men.

As of 2015, almost two-thirds of worldwide suicides are men. BOTH women and men deal with depression and yet the suicide rates are higher amongst men. Although there are many factors that may contribute, one of the biggest reasons is toxic masculinity. We condition boys from a very young age to not express emotion, because to express emotion is to be ‘weak’. It’s “girly.” Emotions are experienced by ALL humans. Your chromosomes don’t matter. Women are expected to be emotional and this sterotype is also harmful. Not only stereotyping all women, but also for men who are deep feelers. Women also tend to communicate feelings more and this is likely due to the sterotypes that exist. Men feel various emotions too, but they are shut down from a young age because “Boys don’t cry.” And along with “boys don’t cry” comes the culture that you can’t feel your feelings. When this is needed in order to process, cope, learn healthy coping skills, and know when you need help. Men are also more likely to turn to addictive substances to cope because for their entire life they were told they can’t feel their feelings. And when they grow, they turn to unhealthy ways to cope. This is a global issue that begins in childhood. Instead of “stop crying,” “Don’t cry,” “boys don’t cry,” “You’re being a baby,” “You’re being a little girl,” say: “I see you are upset” “It’s okay to be sad” “Take your time” “I’m here for you.” “It’s okay to cry.” “Let me know if you need me or need a moment.” By acknowledging emotions, validating feelings, offering help, and moving them through the emotional storm; we teach them about emotions. The more kids are able to feel, the more they can learn to cope when we guide them through that feeling when they’re regulated. “When I’m angry, it helps if I hug a pillow really tight.” “When I’m sad, hugging you really helps me.” And remember: all fe

By Aileen

Published February 4, 2025

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