Shedding Light on Men’s Insecurity and Empowering Self-Esteem

It’s no secret that women tend to struggle with insecurities. Women are often exposed to the expectations of society that demand beauty, perfection, and success—creating an anxiety in some individuals to meet these standards of acceptability. However, this discussion is often one-sided when it comes to addressing the struggle with insecurity. Men too suffer from the impacts of low self-confidence and are more likely than ever to seek treatment in order to improve their mental health in general.

The struggle is real, and there is a growing awareness of the vulnerability and nuances of a man’s low self-esteem. Wherever it stems from—from the countless messages in the media, culture, family, and day-to-day interactions— there is a resounding understanding that men must be strong solutions-oriented problem solvers. The reality is, however, that many men feel insecure beneath this facade and want to talk about it without being pushed away or labeled as ‘weak’.

Fortunately, there are ways to confront and shift the internal dialogue of men struggling with insecurity. It begins first by shedding light on the issues at hand and talking about it openly. Though it is not an easy conversation to have with someone, it is the only way to begin to unlearn the system of shame and judgment that has been so damaging to the mental health of men for generations.

The most important thing for men experiencing insecurity to keep in mind is that they are not alone. Sifting through their feelings and understanding what’s at the source of the pain can be daunting, and help is available. Finding purpose and meaning in life can reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, and seeking support from a trusted friend, family member, or therapist is imperative.

Insecurity can also manifest itself in negative behavior, such as anger outbursts or avoiding commitment. Reassessing your values and confronting them with the new light of awareness can be a powerful tool in developing emotional regulation and healthier decision-making processes.

In addition, setting firm healthy boundaries within relationships is essential in maintaining a positive mindset. There are times where we need to take a step back, reflect on our needs and feelings, and provide ourselves with self-care and acceptance. Practicing mindfulness is one of the best tools we have when it comes to managing stress and improving emotional regulation.

Indulging in activities that bring joy, such as exercising, listening to music, or engaging in creative pursuits can make a world of difference. Self-compassion, which entails treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding we would show others, is an important part of the healing process.

Everyone has the power to transform the hatreds that live inside of them into unimagined potential with the right support and self-love. Instead of living in secrecy, men have the tool to let go of the narrative of shame that has been passed down through generations and find healing in vulnerability, communication, and warm self-acceptance. Owning your journey and moving forward, one step at a time, can help you evolve and become the most authentic version of yourself.