Real strength isn’t about never showing emotion: it’s about respecting yourself enough to let them happen. This post takes a look at Justin Baldoni’s 'Man Enough: Undefining My Masculinity' and 'Boys Will Be Human' books on challenging the outdated rules of manhood. This is a reminder that true courage comes from honesty, vulnerability, and connection. You don’t have to “man up” to matter; you just have to show up as yourself.
Men’s mental health has long been overshadowed by outdated expectations of toughness and silence. This post explores how harmful cultural messages, like “man up” or “never cry”, keep too many men suffering alone. It unpacks the stigma, highlights the real mental health risks men face, and reframes what true strength looks like: honesty, vulnerability, and reaching for support. With practical starting points and encouragement, if you're a man, this is meant to remind you that your struggles are valid, your emotions are human, and help is not just available, it’s meant for you, too.