1. The Fact That You Don’t Like Football
You know what, some people just don’t like it. There’s no shame in it. Not all of us care about who’s just been signed from where, or how the latest local derby was settled. There are plenty of other things to like out there, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that not everyone settles on football.
2. Depression
It’s something that men have been conditioned to ignore. We’ve been told since childhood to “man up”, but depression is not a choice, not something to be embarrassed about, and can happen to anyone.
3. Body Image
It’s easy to dismiss worries about body image as a purely feminine phenomenon, but it’s a real struggle for a lot of us guys. Dudes constantly have masculine ideals of ripped six-packs and huge biceps pushed into their faces. It’s time we started talking about our concerns and insecurities. It’s totally cool to embrace that dad bod, mate.
4. Losing Your Hair
Look, it just happens. If you looked up “hair loss” in the dictionary, we’re pretty sure it’s just a shruggie emoji and the words “It’ll be OK, don’t worry”. Still, it is a thing that plays on the literal minds of young men everywhere. So let’s give each other (and ourselves) a break, and start talking about those hairs that came out in your hand that one time.
5. Pedicures
Just ask for one. Go into that damn place and ask for one. It is their job to do it. Soft feet are the best.
6. Sexuality and Relationships
It can be super difficult to admit to these things to yourself, but that’s the first step. The second step is unloading that burden to someone else who you trust. If you’ve got an issue that involves your sex life – be that sexual orientation, confusion, getting dumped, or whatever – you need to share it. Keeping it all bottled up will not only make you unhappy, but also unhealthy.
7. Anxiety and Emotions
Hey, your brain can be scary. It’s OK to speak about that. It’s actually really useful. A problem shared is a problem halved and all that. Forget all that “big boys don’t cry” nonsense, you’ll also find out how many people have been having similar feelings and problems. And if you’re comfortable opening up to your friends and family for fear of judgements, then you can always talk to a therapist. They’re, like, the wisest friends you never had.
8. Candles
It’s fine. You can admit it. Men like candles, because everyone likes candles, because candles are awesome. Making your house super comfy and relaxed isn’t “for girls”.
9. Panic Attacks
You ever seen The Sopranos? Panic attacks can happen to anyone. They’re not a sign of weakness or illness; they’re just your body getting its signals mixed up. Talking about them shouldn’t be embarrassing – it should be illuminating. You might just work out what factors are causing them in the process…
10. Work
There’s this old adage that you shouldn’t talk about work in social circles, but whatever. One of the most common reasons for guys feeling down is work, and with work encroaching on all our lives evermore, it’s totally cool to chat about it in the pub. Got some stress at work? A few issues that have been bugging you? General frustrations? Just let it out. You’ll feel way better for it. (And, as a bonus, there’s no pesky HR people in the pub…)
11. Loneliness
No man is an island. We forget who said that, but it’s true. All the guys you know might come across as living their best life, but a common reason for guys feeling down is loneliness. It only takes a minute to reach out to a friend or loved one, and can make the world of difference.
12. Suicide
Let’s not get it twisted, it’s one of the hardest things to talk about in the entire world. It’s intensely personal and confusing and dark and amazingly 42% of men have considered suicide. Suicide is now the single biggest cause of death for men aged under 45. Add to that the fact that 70% of guys questioned said if their mate felt suicidal then they’d sit down with him and talk about it. So, tell a mate. And if you can’t, then ring one of the many helplines out there and talk through what’s going on in your head.
