Men’s Challenges in Addiction Recovery

Men may be more likely to think they don’t need treatment than women and may feel more embarrassed about seeking treatment. Additionally, they may feel that they can handle things on their own and are socialized to believe that they should be fearless. Some men might feel that seeking treatment could indicate weakness.

Potential barriers to treatment and men’s issues in addiction recovery can include:

• Being perceived as weak or otherwise “losing face.”

• Worrying about losing income.

• Not having sick leave.

• Fearing they’ll lose employment if they seek treatment.

• Cultural/societal barriers, such as their level of conformity to traditional masculine roles, or factors related to race, ethnicity, and similar issues, such as racism and acculturation.

• Thinking they can handle the problem without treatment.