Talking About How I Really Am

What is Talking About How I Really Am?

Find ways to open up that feel doable. Many men are taught to keep things to themselves. Talking is a skill, and it can start small.

When to use it

• Men who find it hard to talk about feelings
• Stress that shows up as anger, overwork or withdrawal
• Pressure around providing and fatherhood

How to use it in session

1. Explain the purpose and check that the client wants to do this.
2. How stress shows up for me.
3. What I usually say when asked how I am.
4. What is actually going on.
5. One person I could tell a little more to.
6. How I could start: side by side, on a walk, by text.
7. Agree one small next step.

Clinician tips

• Start with action-focused or practical language if that feels easier.
• Normalize; avoid implying that men are bad at feelings.
• Screen for depression, substance use and suicide risk, which can look different in men.

Sharing with clients

Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.

This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.