By Brian Forbes, Ph.D., R.Psych.
Men’s mental health has been referred to as a “silent crisis” by the Canadian Mental Health Association. While men and women’s rates of mental illness are very similar, men are less likely to seek help than women. In terms of seeking help, research has found the ratio is 2 to 1 woman to men. This has certainly been the case in those seeking help through the CPA Assist program—the profession’s assistance and wellness program—which raises the question: “why?”. Several factors have been found that contribute to this discrepancy, including societal expectations, stigma, and discrimination.
First, men are raised to be stoic, rather than to talk about their feelings or show vulnerability. Rather than seek help, they either suffer in silence or turn to more destructive coping strategies, such as substance abuse or gambling. Second, men fear that their job or career could be at risk if they mention their mental health issues at work or their difficulties coping with job demands.
Men describe their own symptoms of depression without realizing they are depressed. Generally, they make no connection between mental health and physical symptoms. In men, mental health problems can be masked. A lot of health symptoms in men, including migraines, back pain, and irritable bowel syndrome, are rooted in depression.
Finally, from my perspective based on experience in delivering mental health services to men, many men have a fear of going to counselling and have preconceived notions of what a counseling session will entail. As one male client asked during their first session, “Am I going to have to lay on the couch and talk about my childhood and relationship with my mother?” Others have had a fear of being vulnerable and feeling threatened or have expressed concerns about confidentiality.
It is important to note that at therapy the client has control. Here is a brief outline of what one can expect in a session through CPA Assist:
- The first session is about establishing a connection and strong foundation with your therapist. It’s a great time to ask questions. The therapist may start with providing some information about the Assist program, but with a focus on confidentiality. What is discussed is totally confidential and no information is released to anyone, including your spouse or family members, without your expressed consent. They may also let you know that every client is assigned a coding number and that invoicing to CPA does not contain any names; only the coding number as the identifier.
- After the introduction, the therapist may ask why you have sought counselling. This would then lead into questions to determine the major issue and what event(s) have led to your current and past symptoms in order to better understand what you are struggling with either at work or in your personal life (e.g., marital issues, parenting issues, financial issues, substance abuse issues, etc.). The therapist may also ask about your physical health, because some medical conditions are associated with the development of mental health issues.
- The therapist will then discuss with you a therapeutic plan to address your issue(s), based on the information you have provided. It is important to note that most interventions require some homework in order to more quickly develop the skills to deal with your issue(s) effectively.
- Finally, the first session provides you, the client, with the opportunity to determine if the therapist is the right match for you. If you felt that it was not a match, then you can call CPA Assist at 1-855-596-4222 and you will be referred to another therapist.
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward strength and resilience. By understanding what to expect in therapy and challenging outdated stigmas, men can take control of their mental health and lead more balanced, fulfilling lives. The support is there—reaching out is the first and most powerful step.
CPA Assist provides confidential counselling services and 24/7 crisis support to Alberta and Saskatchewan CPAs, candidates, and their immediate families. To book an appointment through CPA Assist call 1-855-596-4222. For more information about upcoming webinars and events, visit cpa-assist.ca.
