November is Movember, when moustaches raise awareness of men’s health, including mental health. It’s a good time to talk about the signs of stress in men that often go unnoticed, sometimes even by the men themselves.
Many men don’t describe stress as “stress”. They describe being tired, short-tempered or just flat. Recognising the signs early makes a real difference.
Why the signs of stress in men get missed
Many men are taught to push through, stay busy and keep problems to themselves. Stress then shows up in other ways, through the body, behaviour or mood, rather than as worry that’s talked about.
Common signs of stress in men
- Irritability or a short fuse, especially at home
- Trouble sleeping, or waking at 3am with your mind racing
- Tight shoulders, headaches or a sore jaw
- Drinking more, or relying on caffeine to get through the day
- Working longer hours but getting less done
- Pulling back from friends, sport or things you used to enjoy
- Feeling numb, flat or “just tired” all the time
One or two of these on a bad week is normal. Several, for weeks on end, is a sign to take seriously.
What to do about signs of stress in men
- Move your body: a walk, a swim or a gym session gives stress somewhere to go.
- Talk to one person: a mate, partner or brother. You don’t need to have the words worked out.
- Protect your sleep: a regular bedtime and less screen time before bed.
- Notice your drinking: if alcohol has become your main way to switch off, that’s worth paying attention to.
- Book a check-up: a GP visit is a good place to start, for body and mind.
When to get more support
If stress is affecting your work, relationships or sleep for more than a few weeks, talk to your GP. If you need to talk to someone now, call MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Where kinesiology fits
Kinesiology is a gentle, practical way to work on stress without having to have all the words. In a session, I use muscle monitoring to find where stress is sitting, then use balancing techniques to help your nervous system settle. It works alongside, not instead of, care from your GP or psychologist.
Related reading:
- Trapped in burnout? How to break free and reclaim your wellbeing
- How workplace conflict affects your wellbeing, and how to find peace
- Mental Health Month: 5 small daily habits that ease stress
Feeling stressed or burnt out? Find out how our stress and burnout sessions can help, or call 0421 055 680 to book your assessment in Sydney City, Surry Hills or Hornsby.
Your action right now
Look at the list of signs above and count how many apply to you, or to a man in your life. If it’s three or more, have one honest conversation this week.
This article is general information only and isn’t medical advice.
References
- MensLine Australia. Phone and online counselling.
About the author
Sharrda Mani is a Sydney kinesiologist, coach and qualified educator, and the founder of Kinesiology for Performance. She discovered kinesiology in 2004 after three years of part-time study in somatic psychotherapy, trained with the International College of Professional Kinesiology Practice (ICPKP) and has taught Touch for Health. She holds an Honours degree in Mathematics Education and spent years as a business analyst and project manager, so she knows the pressure of work and study first-hand. She is writing a practical guide to ADHD in everyday life.