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A guy had apanic attacka few months ago and decided to start going to therapy.
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Then he wrote a first-person essay about his experience that became national news.
His name is Kevin Love.
So what makes his story news?
We have a hard time picturing a revered idol becoming vulnerable and talking about his feelings.
The categories we place him in just dont jibe with the biases we still hold about people seeking help.
So, why not?
For context, Love will reportedly earn$22.6 millionthis year.
But heres the thing: Emotional disorders dont really care how much money you have in your bank account.
Even thepopeandHoward Stern, as opposite as they may be, each sing the praises of psychotherapy.
No one performs their best when they lack energy and focus.
Men seeking therapy are a minority, whether the reason for that is biological or societal in nature.
Men also represent an estimated four out of five suicides, and thenumbers are rising.
Our culture teaches men that there isnt room for vulnerability in the definition of masculinity.
You learn what it takes to be a man.
Its like a playbook: Be strong.
Dont talk about your feelings.
Get through it on your own.
So for 29 years of my life, I followed that playbook.
We don’t typically envision men in therapy because being tough and seeking help appear to be in opposition.
The truth is, they go hand in hand.
Every star athlete has a coach to help hone their physical performance.
Wouldnt an expert in mental and emotional performance make sense as well?
And not just for top athletes, but also for the walking wounded among us every day?
Cynics might say Love is only talking openly about his mental health because he can.
He is wealthy and successful, so he may be immune to judgment.
But I beg to differ.
Love didnt need to open up to the public.
He could have flown under the radar.
Instead, he decided to take the risk of revealing his own psychological setback to get to educate others.
Love has received anoutpouring of supportand offers to help illuminate mental health issues.
Call it therapy, counseling, consulting, or coachingwhatever fits for you.
Tell them what youre struggling with and ask how theyd go about treating it.
Ask about their experience with your issue and what a typical course of treatment looks like.
Go with the better vibe.
After youve felt out a few therapists, choose your favorite.
Make a conscious effort to put feelings into words and find practical solutions.
(Dont be surprised if your loved ones thank you.)
Love is rich, hes successful, hes a star athlete, and hes male.
And hes found relief from his panic attacks through psychotherapy.
No one, regardless of gender or socioeconomic status, is immune to mental health issues.
I hope Loves vulnerable confession helps more men (and women) realize this.
