The world increasingly asks men to talk; to open themselves up, and ‘be more vulnerable’. But few ask what happens when men do - the treatment of their emotions, and responses they receive, that can be described as ‘a mixed bag’. The virtuous and naive insist that it’s men’s so-called ‘toxic’ mindset that needs to change, but never is the spotlight of accountability shone onto the truly toxic mindset that often weaponises such words, to form bullets from tears, and cuts jokes from pain. The mindset that finds such discloses as repulsive, or unmanly, as props for a gag, or grounds for a breakup. The truth is some women applaud and uplift, whilst others ridicule and tear down. Some comfort and listen; others react in horror, or apathy, or catalogue such secrets away, precious words of vulnerablility, to be turned into the ultimate ammunition for future arguments. Some truly care, whilst others just revel in the perception of seeming so. Yes, we ask men to talk. And they should. But few dare ask what kind of experiences have led men to hold onto their words, and hide away their emotions, for so long. So let’s ask that now – men, what has been the response from your girlfriends, wives, partners, or those you are dating, when you did finally ‘open up’? ~ Images by Codioful #guytalk #mentalk #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mencantalk #malesuicideawareness #malesuicide

2023-11-23