Reaching out for help when you’re struggling is already one of the hardest things you can do. When you add on being told to just ‘man up’ or  ‘get over yourself,’ it can make picking up the phone or sending a text feel impossible.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “Nearly 1 in 10 men will experience depression or anxiety but less than half will receive treatment” in the US. Why is this?

“We were taught it would look unmanly if someone were to show feelings or express concern for their mental well being,” said LHS football coach Spencer Phillips.  

There are other similar stigmas that have conditioned boys from expressing their own emotions.

“It’s always been men should be the strong ones, men should never cry, men can’t do this or that because it is considered weak,” said sophomore Colby Owens. 

In reality, having the ability to be ‘weak’ with one another is one of the strongest things you can do. Our community has lost too many men to suicide. The silence that surrounds mental health has to end.

“The best way to challenge the silence is to start normalizing the conversations to share emotions with one another,” said junior Drew Weiler. “Just [be] able to understand that it isn’t weak to be in tune with your own emotions.”

The idea of masculinity that society has branded on men—that to be a man means you have to suppress your emotions, never show vulnerability, or ask for help—has to change. The stigma it has caused is real and it is harmful.

If you are struggling don’t ‘man up,’ speak up.