Breaking the 'Man Up' Myth: My Journey Begins

[MagnumArts]

Hey everyone,

I'm new here, and I have to admit, this is outside my comfort zone. For my whole life it's been drilled into me that men shouldn't show weakness. Ever. You know the whole "man up" mantra that sticks like gum on a shoe? It's time to break down that mindset, and to be honest, well, it's been a struggle.

I've been dealing with anxiety and depression for a while now, and it's felt like a never-ending battle. I'm tired of fighting it alone and pretending everything is fine. So here I am, hoping to find some understanding and support from people who get what it's like (and offer understanding and support in return).

I'm an artist who uses art to channel a lot of the emotional toxic waste and painful experiences; in this message is one of my art pieces. I'm looking forward to connecting with you, sharing my experiences, and maybe even finding a way to laugh through the tough times.

[kenster1]

welcome aboard love the artwork.

[Starrlight]

beautiful expression

[Midori]

Hello there,

You have come to the right place. We are a caring bunch of folks, all with our own demons. We are all at different stages in our recovery journeys.

We aren't doctors, but just folks like you.

Talk to us and we'll try to help, as best we can, by letting you know the things which have helped us.

Cheers, Midori

[gajh]

Hello. Welcome. I am glad you have joined us.

[fauxartist]

Awesome work , it has a bit of a Keith Haring feel to it. I'm an artist too, we have a few of us on this site...and my work keeps me sane somewhat, as it's when I'm happiest in my Zen place when I'm painting.

I hear ya about the 'real men don't cry ' thing.... and it's just as you say...antiquated thinking. Besides, I admire a guy for being able to show and feel their emotions...they are allowing themselves to be human, be normal, and just be.

Please keep posting your work, I love it....and you will find some of my long time guy pals here will agree with you, as they are good people who I admire for their honesty and sensitivity.

[MagnumArts in reply to fauxartist]

Thanks for your response. This is one of my "Dark Office" series; I published an online book with the same visial style. The arts absolutely helps with sanity maintenance.

I'm a big believer in being comfortable with being uncomfortable; positive change is rarely comfortable. That said, it will take time to learn how to let my guard down after being on guard pretty much my whole life.

[Agora1]

MagnumArts, I've read your Bio. Allow me to extend my deepest sympathy on the

passing of your loved one. I always want to thank you for your service. You have

taken a step forward into a community of caring and understanding virtual friends.

May it help heal some of your pain knowing you are not alone. Welcome New Friend xx

[MagnumArts in reply to Agora1]

Thank you for your kind words. Like the Chinese proverb says, A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I'm determined to shed the self-imposed isolation I have lived for most of my life, and this is one step toward that goal. I appreciate you!

[Artistfriend]

Thanks for sharing your work. Im an artist also, welcome. The more i struggle with myself and the more honest and comfortable i am with it the more of a man i feel. Anyone who uses man-up or thinks that way has never struggled with anxiety. At this point it wouldnt bother me at all because i know they just havent been through it and dont know what a daily struggle and grind it can be. Most of the men im in contact with have all had their different issues and are honest about it. It seems like anyone who is too judgmental of others is judging themselves because they arent confident in their own ability to handle stress or chaos

[litethatnevergoesout]

hello. very open and brave considering it’s out of your comfort zone, especially taking on the mentality of ‘rangering / man - up’ and sharing a piece of work that is so revealing.

[Agora1]

MagnumArts, unless we step out of our comfort zone, we can't achieve our

goals in life. You've come to a safe place and a nonjudgmental place to change

the views that have been drilled into you all your life. Man or Woman isn't the issue

here but rather being human we all have the same desires and needs and that's to be

cared about. As you take these steps forward in order to reach your goal, know that

you will be supported by the best. You've Got This xx

[MagnumArts in reply to Agora1]

I'm new to this portal, so I could use your advice. I have been doing some research into the issue of loneliness, particularly the extreme difficulty that men have admitting that they are lonely. Where would be a good place to post some of what I have learned? Should I start a new thread, post it on this thread, or is there another area that would be more conducive to sharing what I found out?

[Agora1 in reply to MagnumArts]

Hi Magnum, I read recently where one out of two people experience loneliness

now a days. Men and women alike. Your research can be made on a new post.

For your protection and the protection of the responders, it is a good idea to Lock

your posts. When you get to the bottom of the page there will be a choice for you

to make as to if the content is "For Community Only" or "Anyone" By selecting

community what we say back and forth stays within this forum. Looking forward

in what you found. xx