The Pressure to “Be a Man”
From a young age, many men are told to be tough, hide their emotions, and never show weakness. Society often defines masculinity by power, dominance, and emotional suppression. While strength and resilience are valuable, toxic masculinity creates unrealistic expectations that can damage mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Terry Real, a leading therapist and author of I Don’t Want to Talk About It, explores how men are conditioned to suppress their emotions, leading to hidden depression, anger, and disconnection. He argues that emotional suppression is passed down through generations, making it difficult for men to break free from toxic masculinity without awareness and support.
What Is Toxic Masculinity?
Toxic masculinity refers to rigid beliefs about manhood that discourage vulnerability and promote aggression, emotional detachment, and dominance. Some common signs include:
Believing that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness
Suppressing sadness, anxiety, or fear
Feeling pressure to always be in control
Using anger as the primary acceptable emotion
Struggling to ask for help or seek therapy
While masculinity itself is not toxic, these harmful beliefs can make it difficult for men to form healthy relationships and manage their mental health effectively.
Emotional Strength: The Healthy Alternative
True emotional strength is not about suppressing feelings but learning to manage them in a healthy way. A strong man can:
Recognize and express emotions without shame
Communicate openly in relationships
Set boundaries without aggression or avoidance
Ask for help when needed
Develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence
When men embrace emotional strength, they improve their mental health, build stronger relationships, and experience greater fulfillment in life.
How Toxic Masculinity Affects Mental Health
Many men who struggle with depression, anxiety, or stress feel they must “tough it out” instead of seeking support. Suppressing emotions can lead to:
Increased stress and burnout
Difficulty maintaining intimate relationships
Higher risk of substance abuse
Unhealthy coping mechanisms, like aggression or isolation
In I Don’t Want to Talk About It, Terry Real explains how this cycle of emotional repression often manifests as workaholism, addiction, or emotional withdrawal. His work highlights how men can heal by confronting their hidden depression and learning to express vulnerability in a way that strengthens rather than diminishes their masculinity.
How to Redefine Masculinity in a Healthy Way
If you’ve been conditioned to avoid emotions, changing your mindset may feel uncomfortable. Here are some ways to embrace emotional strength:
1. Challenge Old Beliefs
Ask yourself: Where did I learn that expressing emotions is weak? Is this belief serving me well? Recognizing these ingrained messages is the first step to change.
2. Develop Emotional Awareness
Pay attention to your emotions instead of ignoring them. Journaling, mindfulness, or therapy can help you identify and process feelings in a productive way.
3. Communicate Openly
Instead of shutting down or becoming defensive, practice sharing your thoughts and emotions with people you trust. Healthy communication builds stronger relationships.
4. Seek Support When Needed
There is no shame in reaching out for help. Whether through therapy, support groups, or trusted friends, seeking support is a sign of emotional intelligence, not weakness.
How Therapy for Men in Katy, TX Can Help
If you struggle with expressing emotions, managing stress, or navigating relationships, therapy can provide the tools and support you need. At Restoring Connections, we specialize in therapy for men in Katy, TX, helping men break free from toxic masculinity and build emotional strength. Inspired by experts like Terry Real, I guide men toward healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and relating to others. Together, we’ll develop practical strategies to help you communicate more openly, reduce shame, and redefine masculinity on your own terms.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier You
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. If you're ready to break free from toxic masculinity and embrace emotional strength, I’m here to help. Contact us today to schedule a session and start your path toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.