Men’s health and the economy

June 10, 4:34 PMSan Diego Wellness ExaminerKim Chartrand

Previous Next

Comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the San Diego Wellness Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

Real men have feelings (AP photo W. Rothermel)

Probably more important than any of the physical screenings suggested for men is the examination of the state of men’s hearts; their emotional hearts. The uncertain economy has dealt a blow to men where they are often the most vulnerable. Economic well being is directly tied to male well being through identification between the two. This new climate may be an opportunity for men to change their view of value and gain a powerful foothold in wellness that transcends economic situations.

More often than women, men tend to equate their personal value to their earning power. Former pro football player-turned-coach and inspirational speaker Joe Ehrmann notes that men believe a cultural lie specific to their gender (women believe a different set of lies…). It’s the belief that a man’s value is tied directly to his “economic success, sexual conquest, and athletic ability”. When any of those things are impacted, the consequences affect a man in body, mind, and spirit.

The natural feelings of anger, fear, worry, and sadness at losing earning power can turn into more serious issues like depression if left unaddressed. And men tend to think that addressing unpleasant feelings like these are like saying they are weak, vulnerable and generally not valuable people.

If you are affected by the economy:

• The first and hardest part is to admit that you are struggling. Others notice and understand but you may be the last one willing to admit it.

• Your ability to earn money is not who you are. Your value is not dependent upon the size of your paycheck.

• Feeling fearful, sad, worried, angry or anxious in uncertain times is normal but don’t LIVE in this emotional wilderness!! Feelings don’t necessarily reflect reality.

• Stay in relationship. Men tend to “go it alone”. Compounded with the reluctance to be honest with others about your feelings and situation further alienates you. Men tend to deal with feeling alone by substance use/abuse and engaging in risk taking behavior.

• Seek out care if you feel excessively overwhelmed including spiritual care.

• Continue to exercise, eat healthy food, and socialize. Getting out into nature is resetting and gives perspective. Breathe!

• Learn to appreciate the sufficiency of the moment. Fear comes from concerns related either to the past (which is over) or the future (which is an illusion).

• Realize that becoming disillusioned in life is not necessarily a bad thing! If you believe an illusion, having that bubble popped is a good thing. Learn to reframe your perspective.

• Stay in hope—the truth lives behind the veil of what we see.