Stronger, Healthier, Connected: The Benefits of Therapy for Men

 

In 2025, more men are embracing therapy and challenging longstanding misconceptions about masculinity, connection, and growth. The reality is, therapy is increasingly seen as a sign of reliability and emotional availability — qualities linked with enhanced interpersonal interactions, stronger partnerships, and healthier families. It is no secret that for generations, the overarching message conveyed to men has been to “man up” and suppress emotions in lieu of seeking assistance from others. However, the tides are turning, and therapy has progressively become recognized as a “green flag” in men throughout the nation.

Current statistics reveal both progress and ongoing challenges regarding men’s mental health. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (2022), more women diagnosed with mental illness (56.9%) received treatment compared to men with the same diagnoses (41.6%). Additionally, it has been found that depression affects more than 6 million men in the United States, while over 3 million men live with panic disorder, agoraphobia, or another phobia — yet less than half seek treatment (Mental Health America, 2022). Suicide also continues to present significant concern, with men being approximately 4 times more likely to die by suicide than women (Counseling Today, 2024). In other words, men make up approximately 50% of the United States population, but account for nearly 80% of all suicides in the U.S. each year (CDC, 2023).

Men are also statistically more likely than women to use substances as a coping mechanism, and therapy has been shown to significantly lower risky drinking and drug use (NIDA, 2023). The benefits of therapy don’t stop there. Therapy helps men process anger, grief, and stress more effectively, leading to both healthier coping strategies and healthier overall well-being. In fact, men in therapy show significant reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms, with therapy proving just as effective for men as for women (American Psychological Association, 2023). In conjunction with this, men who engage in therapy report better communication, higher relationship satisfaction, and reduced conflict at home (Journal of Marital & Family Therapy, 2022). Even for those who focus predominantly on work, addressing stress, burnout, and mental health challenges improves productivity and lowers absenteeism, with the World Health Organization estimating a $4 return on every $1 invested in mental health care through improved work outcomes (WHO, 2022).

Given that information, it is inspiring to see that a number of promising shifts are emerging. A Thriveworks survey found 37% of fathers are currently in therapy, and 72% had planned to seek therapy in 2025 (Thriveworks, 2024). At an even more grand scope, the percentage of men who sought therapy in 2002 (8.7%) had nearly doubled by 2024 (17.3%).

That trend can only be expected to continue to grow, especially in conjunction with the greater availability of online therapy. This has even further reduced barriers by offering flexibility, privacy, and convenience while allowing men to take that first step without fear of stigma. For many, seeking therapy is no longer hidden — instead, it is celebrated. At BHC, we see firsthand how men are transforming their lives through therapy. With male providers, online options, and safe, judgment-free spaces, we’re proud to be active participants in facilitating mental healthcare for everyone.

Ready to make therapy your green flag? Reach out to us:

Location: Wisconsin, USA

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