Being a Man, Being Human: A Practical Guide to Men’s Mental Health

By Crystal Jordan

Becoming Him Magazine

Published: 7/20/2025

Dek: Strength isn’t silence. It’s strategy. Here’s a grounded playbook for checking in, getting help, and leading your life with steadiness—not shutdown.

The Quiet Rule That’s Hurting Us

Most men were trained to “handle it.” That script confuses suppression with strength. Suppression delays the crash; strength prevents it. This article gives you small, repeatable moves that keep you steady when life is heavy.

 “Strength isn’t what you hide. It’s what you practice.”

A 10-Minute Daily Check-In (No App Required)

Minute 1–2 — Name ItWrite three words for your current state (no explanations): tired, tense, hopeful.

Minute 3–4 — Locate ItWhere is it in your body—jaw, chest, gut? Hand there. Breathe 4-2-6 (inhale 4, hold 2, exhale 6) for four rounds.

Minute 5 — Ask One QuestionWhat would help today—not someday? (water, walk, honest text, call the barber/mentor/therapist)

Minute 6 — Calendar ItPut it on your phone with an alarm. Intentions lose to schedules.

Minute 7–8 — MoveTen air squats or a hallway walk. Motion signals “we’re not stuck.”

Minute 9 — ConnectSend one text: “Thinking of you. You good for real?”

Minute 10 — Close With TruthSay: “I’m allowed to be in progress.”

Scripts for Hard Moments

• When you don’t have the words:“I don’t have the whole story yet. I just know I’m heavy today.”

• When anger is really sadness:“I sound mad, but I think I’m disappointed.”

• When you need help fast:“I’m not okay and I need you to sit with me or help me find someone to talk to.”

• At work, keeping it clean:“I need a 15-minute step-away to reset and come back clear.”

 “You don’t need perfect language. You need honest language.”