This article is dedicated to my husband, Angel, and all the men who are and have been in therapy. June is Men’s Mental Health Month, and historically, many men have avoided therapy because of the stigma surrounding mental health. Many men work hard to support their families and may believe that asking for help is a sign of weakness. However, true strength and being “manly” also means being able to ask for help and seek professional support when managing thoughts or emotions becomes difficult.
I’ll share a little of my husband’s story with his permission. Even though I am a therapist, he did not really believe in therapy at first. In 2020, he experienced a major breakdown that affected many areas of his life. Eventually, he realized he needed help and began his therapy journey. At first, he was weary and unsure, but as he started opening up and learning different coping skills, he began making positive changes that led him to where he is today.
Throughout this journey, he became more confident and learned how to focus on himself and his well-being. He now says, “There is nothing wrong with seeking help. Men’s mental health matters!” He even left a job he did not enjoy after 20 years and discovered his passion for teaching and is now working toward his teaching certificate.
Men should not keep everything bottled up inside. Real strength comes from being open about feelings and learning the tools needed to become a better version of yourself. If you do not know where to start, I can help.
Elizabeth Hernandez-Collazo, LCSW
Innovative Minds Counseling, LLC
4601 Oak Circle
Reading, PA 19606
Phone: 484-706-9836
Fax: 484-709-1382
Email: elizabethcollazo@innovativemindscounseling.com
