THE SILENT STRUGGLE | Why Men Avoid Therapy and How to Change the Narrative

By Dr. Joshua Konu | Sports Chiropractor & Psychology Graduate

Mental health is something we all have, just like physical health. Yet when it comes to therapy, men are far less likely to reach out for support. The numbers are clear: while men and women experience mental health challenges at similar rates, men are significantly less likely to seek treatment.

As som

eone with a background in both psychology and sports medicine, and with over 15 years in the mental health field, I have seen firsthand how cultural beliefs, stigma, and misconceptions hold men back from getting the help they need.

So why do men avoid therapy? And how do we change that narrative?

The Barriers Men Face

1. The “Be Tough” Mentality From a young age, boys are often told to “man up” or “tough it out.” Emotional vulnerability can feel like weakness, even though it is actually a sign of strength.

2. Fear of Judgment Many men fear being judged by friends, family, or colleagues if they admit they are struggling. Unfortunately, this often leads to silence until the problem becomes overwhelming.

3. Misunderstanding Therapy Some picture therapy as sitting on a couch, talking about childhood, and feeling exposed. In reality, therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and practical, especially when tailored to men’s needs.

4. Time and Priorities Men often put work, family, or performance ahead of themselves. Therapy can feel like a “luxury” rather than the essential investment it really is.

Changing the Narrative

Here is what we can do together to shift the way men see mental health support:

• Normalize Conversations Talking about therapy should be as ordinary as talking about going to the gym or physio. When leaders, athletes, and professionals open up, it sets the tone.

• Highlight Performance and Strength Men connect with goals. Reframing therapy as a tool to perform better in life, work, and relationships can make it more approachable.

• Integrate Care At Invicta Performance, we take a collaborative approach. Mental health is not separate from physical health. Stress can tighten muscles, anxiety can fuel pain, and unresolved emotions can hold back recovery.

• Provide Safe, Judgment Free Spaces Creating clinics and communities where men feel supported, understood, and respected is key. No shame, just progress.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding therapy does not make problems disappear, it often makes them harder to manage. But when men take that first step, the ripple effect is powerful: stronger mental resilience, healthier bodies, better relationships, and greater overall performance.

It is time to change the narrative. Therapy is not weakness. It is strategy.

If you are ready to start, our team at Invicta Performance offers psychology, chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage, and more, all under one roof. Whether your goal is to manage stress, recover from injury, or simply feel more like yourself again, we are here to help.

👉 Book your appointment today and take the first step toward stronger mental and physical health.