Shara Smile, LLC Newsletter June 2025

Greetings to my Shara Smile Community!

This month is a significant one, as we celebrate Father's Day on Sunday, June 15th, and importantly, it's also Men's Mental Health Awareness Month and PTSD Awareness Month. This month invites us to reflect on the multifaceted aspects of mental well-being, particularly for the men in our lives, and to acknowledge the silent battles many face.

Our society has long prescribed a narrow definition of masculinity, one that often encourages men to suppress their emotions, to "suck it up," or "be a man." These phrases, while perhaps intended to foster resilience, can inadvertently create an environment where seeking help or expressing vulnerability is seen as a weakness. This stoicism can be a heavy burden, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms and preventing men from addressing their mental health needs effectively. The expectation to always be strong, to be the unwavering provider, can leave little room for acknowledging pain, sadness, or anxiety.

A conversation I had recently with a gentleman asked what men issues I typically encounter. As I shared the diverse range of emotional and psychological needs I see in my office – from relationship stress and work pressures to anxiety, depression, and the impact of trauma – his response was telling. He suggested that these sounded like typical life challenges and questioned if the response shouldn't simply be to "grow a pair."

This very sentiment underscores a critical issue. If men are met with such dismissive attitudes when they consider opening up, even to each other, where can they turn? If they lack a supportive spouse, girlfriend, or family members, the journey towards emotional support can feel incredibly isolating. This is precisely why dedicated spaces for men's mental health are so vital. It’s the reason I offer that confidential, understanding environment where men can explore their challenges without judgment and develop healthy strategies for navigating life.

June also calls us to focus on PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness. PTSD is a condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. For men, especially those in professions with high exposure to trauma or those who have experienced significant personal adversity, acknowledging the symptoms of PTSD and seeking help can be another hurdle compounded by societal expectations of toughness. It's crucial to understand that PTSD is not a sign of weakness but a normal response to abnormal circumstances, and effective treatments are available.

This Father's Day, and throughout Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, let's make a conscious effort to change the narrative. Let's strive to be empathetic listeners to the men in our lives – our fathers, brothers, sons, partners, friends, and colleagues. Let's create an atmosphere where they feel safe to share their burdens and seek support without fear of being told to simply "be a man" in the face of struggles.

Here are a few ways we can all contribute:

• Listen without judgment: Sometimes, the greatest gift we can offer is a listening ear and an open heart. Allow men to express their feelings without immediately offering solutions or minimizing their experiences.

• Challenge unhelpful rhetoric: When you hear phrases that perpetuate harmful stereotypes about men and emotions, gently challenge them. Encourage conversations that normalize men seeking help.

• Educate yourself: Learn more about men's mental health issues and PTSD. Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you support those around you.

• Encourage professional help when needed: There is immense strength in seeking support. Normalize therapy and counseling as valuable tools for well-being.

• Lead by example: Regardless of your gender, be open about your own emotional experiences (where appropriate) to help foster a culture of openness.

Let this June be a time for deeper connection, understanding, and a renewed commitment to supporting the mental health of all individuals, recognizing the unique challenges men face.

Wishing you all a month of reflection and connection.

Go out there and if you can, Share a SMILE!

Shara Carter, LPC-MHSP, NCC