Why you may need therapy

Men often pride themselves on being helpful problem-solvers. However, sometimes they need help dealing with their own problems stemming from emotional issues.

"Many men have trouble processing their feelings and putting them into words, so they need help finding solutions to their problems," says Dr. Stephanie Collier, director of education in the division of geriatric psychiatry at Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital.

This is where confiding in a professional therapist can help. "Sometimes talking about a problem with a friend or family member is useful, but other times it's better to speak with someone outside your circle, so you can feel more relaxed and open about sharing without worrying about feeling judged," says Dr. Collier.

When you need help

Depression and anxiety are the most common reasons men seek professional help. Such feelings often arise from grief, like the death of a spouse, friend, or family member. Other situations that can trigger similar responses include health issues, financial anxiety, or the loss of independence (like no longer being able to drive).

In addition to the trademark symptoms of prolonged sadness and lack of energy, men with depression may adopt self-destructive behavior, like alcohol or opioid abuse. They may experience changes in their social life, such as soured relationships or withdrawal from favorite activities. Anxiety also can cause irritability, insomnia, and trouble with memory and concentration.

"While men may recognize these changes, they may not know the root causes, or if they do, what they can do about them," says Dr. Collier. "A therapist can work with you to identify the source of your problems and then devise a strategy to resolve them."

How to find a therapist

The first step is to speak with your doctor about your situation, feelings, and symptoms. "They should be able to point you to a therapist who can help with your specific issues," says Dr. Collier. "Online sources are also available." Many kinds of professionals offer therapy (both in-person and virtual). They have different approaches based on their training, education, and areas of experience. For example:

Psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a doctor with a medical degree who can prescribe medication and can assist with conditions that often call for drug treatment, such as depression and bipolar disorder.

Psychologist. This professional has earned a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in clinical psychology. In most states, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. They evaluate and treat a range of emotional and psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.

Counselor. A counselor focuses on the problems of everyday living, such as stress and anxiety, relationship conflicts, and mild depression. A licensed professional counselor (LPC) has finished an accredited graduate program plus 2,000 hours of supervised psychotherapy experience.

Social worker. Similar to a professional counselor in terms of education and training, many social workers focus on mental health issues, dealing with addiction, connecting clients with resources, and helping with referrals to other professionals, if needed. Depending on the state, they may have other credentials such as LCSW (licensed clinical social worker), LICSW (licensed independent clinical social worker), and LSW (licensed social worker).

Weekly visits are standard at first; depending on your response, you may go more or less often. "After you have completed your initial sessions and found them successful, you might return for periodic check-ins," says Dr. Collier. "But if you are doing well, you may not need to engage in long-term therapy."

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