In our continued journey towards a more understanding and empathetic society, there are still areas that lie in the shadows, often overlooked or pushed aside. One such area is the experience of male trauma. While progress has been made in raising awareness about trauma and abuse faced by women, the trauma experienced by men remains a lesser discussed topic. Today, I want to shed light on this sensitive issue and amplify the voices that often go unheard.

Recognizing the Unspoken

It’s a heartbreaking truth that male trauma is frequently unacknowledged or dismissed. This has largely been the result of long-standing societal norms where men are conditioned to embody strength, resilience, and stoicism. Such norms not only suppress their emotional expression but also invalidate their traumatic experiences.

Seeing both sides of the coin

True healing can only begin when we recognize and validate the experiences of all victims, irrespective of their gender. Just as we rally behind women survivors, we must extend the same compassion, support, and understanding towards men who’ve experienced trauma. Understanding the dual nature of this issue – recognizing that both men and women can be victims – is crucial for holistic societal healing.

The cultural dilemma

Historically, many cultures have fostered environments where men feel compelled to remain silent about their emotions and experiences. This suppression often stems from fear—fear of ridicule, dismissal, or of appearing “weak”. This has led to generations of men suffering in silence, with their emotional scars hidden away.

The universal impact of trauma

Trauma knows no gender. The pain, the anguish, and the long-term effects are universally human, affecting every individual in unique yet profound ways. Whether male or female, trauma can reshape our worldview, impact our relationships, and influence our daily lives.

Starting the conversation

To foster a society where every individual feels safe and supported, we must initiate and normalize conversations about male trauma. By creating platforms and spaces where men feel comfortable sharing their stories, we take the first step towards healing and understanding.

Remember, hurt people often hurt others, perpetuating a cycle of pain. By acknowledging and addressing the trauma experienced by all, we can work towards breaking this cycle.

I believe in the power of collective healing. My aim is to provide an inclusive space where every voice is heard, every experience is validated, and every individual finds the support they need.

As we move forward, let’s pledge to be the change we wish to see—where every man, just like every woman, feels empowered to speak their truth, share their story, and embark on a journey towards healing.

Together, let’s redefine strength and rewrite the narrative.

By Tersia Woodenberg (SoulCheck Holistic Therapy )