Why Are Men Less Likely to Go to Therapy Than Women?

Mental health awareness has grown in recent years, yet one glaring disparity remains: men are far less likely to seek therapy than women. In the U.S., this gap is well-documented and reflects societal attitudes about masculinity, mental health, and help-seeking behavior.

The Numbers: Men vs. Women in Therapy

According to the American Psychological Association, women are nearly twice as likely as men to seek therapy. Here’s a breakdown of the data:

• 24% of women in the U.S. reported receiving mental health treatment, including therapy or counseling, in the past year.
• Only 13% of men reported the same.

Studies show that men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, whether it’s depression, anxiety, or stress. The National Institute of Mental Health has found that while approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness, men remain significantly underrepresented in therapy settings.

Why the Gap? Societal Stigma and Gender Norms

The reasons behind this disparity are deeply rooted in cultural and societal expectations.

Stigma Around Masculinity

Traditional gender norms often portray men as stoic, self-reliant, and emotionally reserved. Seeking help for mental health struggles can be seen as a sign of weakness, discouraging men from reaching out.

Externalizing vs. Internalizing

Men are more likely to externalize mental health issues through behaviors like substance use, anger, or risk-taking, rather than recognizing and addressing emotional distress directly.

Lack of Awareness

Many men may not recognize the symptoms of mental health conditions or may downplay their severity, believing they can “tough it out.”

Therapy as a “Women’s Space”

Therapy is often perceived as a space for emotional expression, which can feel uncomfortable for men who have been socialized to suppress their emotions.

The Consequences of Avoiding Therapy

Avoiding therapy often leads to more difficulty over time.

Higher Rates of Suicide

Men in the U.S. are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This underscores the importance of addressing mental health struggles early.

Untreated Mental Health Conditions

Without professional support, conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD can worsen, affecting relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.

Impact on Physical Health

Mental health is closely tied to physical health. Untreated stress or depression can contribute to chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and weakened immune functioning.

Breaking the Stigma: How Can We Encourage Men to Seek Help?

Closing the gender gap in therapy requires a cultural shift. Here are some steps that may help:

• Normalize mental health conversations: Public figures, athletes, and everyday men sharing their mental health journeys can help reduce stigma.
• Tailor approaches for men: Therapists can create environments that feel more accessible by balancing emotional exploration with practical strategies and problem-solving.
• Increase education and awareness: Campaigns focused on men’s mental health can help men better recognize symptoms and understand the benefits of therapy.
• Encourage peer support: Men are often more comfortable opening up to friends or peers, which can become a stepping stone toward professional help.

The Bottom Line

While the statistics show that men are less likely to go to therapy than women, the tide is slowly turning. As conversations around mental health become more inclusive and stigma-free, more men may begin to see therapy as a tool for healing, growth, and self-understanding.

Mental health is not a gendered issue — it is a human one. If you or someone you know is struggling, seeking help is a courageous step, and it is never too late to start.

Sources: American Psychological Association, National Institute of Mental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.