Ishita Roy

Doula vs Midwife: Is There A Difference?

Doula vs Midwife

<span>Pregnancy</span> means you have to choose the right thing for your health as a mother and for your child too. Birthing can be challenging and so some people go for a trained person who can help you through it. The right support can really make all the difference. While some go for a <span>doula</span>, some go for a <span>midwife</span>. But is there a difference in their roles, training and responsibilities? What should you go for? Let us break it down here: 

The word 'Doula' has its Greek origins, which means "woman's servant". Think of a doula as a supportive companion for an expectant parent, but someone who is not medical professionals but rather emotional and physical support providers who assist before, during, and after childbirth.

<h4>Types of Doulas:</h4>There are two types of doula, a birth doula and a post-partum doula

A birth doula supports laboring parents with nonmedical techniques. These include breathing exercises, massage, and position changes. They provide emotional reassurance and advocate for the parent’s birthing preferences. Whether you opt for a natural birth, pain medications, or even an unplanned cesarean section, a doula helps you feel empowered and safe throughout the process. Studies, like a 2017 Cochrane Review, suggest that having a doula can reduce medical interventions and enhance satisfaction with the birthing experience.

<h4><span rel="noindex">Postpartum</span> Doula:</h4>

After birth, postpartum doulas assist new parents with recovery, infant care, and lactation support. They also help families adjust, particularly in homes with older children.

<h4>Is there any certification or a training?</h4>

Doulas do not require certification, though many opt for formal training programs through organizations like DONA International or Childbirth International. Certification involves coursework and hands-on experience during births. It is always best to ask your doula if you have any doubts related to their qualifications. There are uncertified doulas too, they could be your supportive friends or family members. They too can still offer valuable help, though their knowledge may be more limited.

<strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/could-you-be-pregnant-and-not-know-it-article-151041948" data-type="tilCustomLink"> Could You Be Pregnant And Not Know It?</a></strong>

The main difference between a midwife and a doula is the professional medical training. A midwife is a trained medical professional specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Midwives can serve as independent healthcare providers for the entire prenatal and birthing process, and their training equips them to manage a variety of medical situations.

<h5>Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs):</h5>

CNMs are registered nurses with advanced degrees in midwifery. They can perform many of the same duties as doctors, including prescribing medications, monitoring fetal health, and delivering babies. CNMs often work in hospitals but may also practice in clinics, birth centers, or homes.

<h5>Certified Direct-Entry Midwives (CPMs):</h5>

These midwives do not need nursing degrees but undergo specialized midwifery training. They typically focus on out-of-hospital births, such as those at home or in birthing centers.

Midwives provide medical care, such as prenatal check-ups, labor monitoring, and postpartum evaluations. They are trained to handle complications and emergencies, including postpartum hemorrhages and neonatal resuscitation. While midwives encourage unmedicated births, they fully support parents who choose pharmacological pain relief.

Midwives must complete rigorous training and obtain certifications based on their specialization. CNMs are certified through the American Midwifery Certification Board, while CPMs are certified via the North American Registry of Midwives. Licensure requirements vary by state, but midwives must meet recognized educational and clinical standards.

<h4>Choosing a Doula, a Midwife, or Both</h4>

The most critical factor in choosing a doula or midwife is finding someone you trust and feel comfortable with. Both professionals can play unique and complementary roles in your birthing journey.

<strong>For Emotional Support: </strong>A doula offers continuous labor support and advocacy, making them a valuable addition to hospital and home births alike.

<strong>For Medical Expertise:</strong> A midwife is essential for managing prenatal care and addressing complications during childbirth.

Many parents opt for both, combining the emotional support of a doula with the medical expertise of a midwife for a well-rounded birthing experience.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

doula

midwife

doula vs midwife

postpartum

pregnancy

should i choose a doula

should i choose a midwife

Spike In ‘Gas Station Heroin’ Use Sparks National Health Warning

Women Are Now Waiting More Before Becoming A Mother, Age Trend Shows Motherhood From 2016 to 2023

Lethal Fungus Is Spreading Across Many US States, Why Is It Concerning?

Parenting

Common Mistakes You May Be Making In The Gym

Strengthen Your Legs Muscles With These Exercises

Beat Anxiety With Books: How Reading Helps With Stress

Ghee For Health: Ayurvedic Health Benefits Of Clarified Butter

Common Mistakes You Are Making While Walking

Exercises You Should Do At Home When You Skip Gym

Common Mistakes You May Be Making While Working Out

Ways You Are Runing Your Weight Loss Journey

Beyond Fruits – How To Retain Hydration And Stay Safe In Summers

Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

You Are Hurting Your Gut Health With These Habits

Avoid The Heat With These Indoor Exercises

Stay Sharp! Activities That Keep Cognitive Diseases At Bay

Protect Your Cardiovascular Health With These Heart Healthy Foods

Ways To Ease Nighttime Anxiety

Smoothie Ideas That Can Help With Weight Loss

Low Fat Foods That Are Actually Unhealthy

All Suryanamaskar Poses And How To Do Them

Do Changing Seasons Affect Your Weight?

Can Heatwave Affect Your Diet?

Heatwave To Monsoon: Health Concerns With Seasonal Changes

Standing Exercises That Help You Burn Calories

Reasons To Do Dancing As A Workout

Why Summer Fruits Are A Great Addition To Your Diet?

What Should You Avoid For Your Bladder?

Lower-Body Exercises For Strong Foundation

Healthy Drinks That Improve Your Digestion

World Tobacco Day: Unexpected Ways Smoking Can Affect You

Seasonal Mood Swings? How Weather Affects Mental Health

Is Calorie Counting Healthy? Dos And Don’ts

Heat-Related Illnesses That You Should Know

Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tips On Period Hygiene

​Add These High Protein Vegetarian Meals To Your Diet​

Top 10 Workouts That Burn Most Calorie

Makhana Season – Healthy &amp; Quick Foxnut Recipes

Monsoon Ahead – Tips On Building Rainy Season Immunity

Do You Have Prickly Heat Rash – Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Healthy No-Cook Recipes You Can Try

How Do You Calorie Count – Numbers And Nutrients

Unexpected Signs Of Dehydration – Safety And Precaution Measures

Pregnancy means you have to choose the right thing for your health as a mother and for your child too. Birthing can be challenging and so some people go for a trained person who can help you through it. The right support can really make all the difference. While some go for a doula, some go for a midwife. But is there a difference in their roles, training and responsibilities? What should you go for? Let us break it down here: What is a Doula?The word 'Doula' has its Greek origins, which means "woman's servant". Think of a doula as a supportive companion for an expectant parent, but someone who is not medical professionals but rather emotional and physical support providers who assist before, during, and after childbirth.Types of Doulas:There are two types of doula, a birth doula and a post-partum doulaBirth Doula:A birth doula supports laboring parents with nonmedical techniques. These include breathing exercises, massage, and position changes. They provide emotional reassurance and advocate for the parent’s birthing preferences. Whether you opt for a natural birth, pain medications, or even an unplanned cesarean section, a doula helps you feel empowered and safe throughout the process. Studies, like a 2017 Cochrane Review, suggest that having a doula can reduce medical interventions and enhance satisfaction with the birthing experience.Postpartum Doula:After birth, postpartum doulas assist new parents with recovery, infant care, and lactation support. They also help families adjust, particularly in homes with older children.Is there any certification or a training?Doulas do not require certification, though many opt for formal training programs through organizations like DONA International or Childbirth International. Certification involves coursework and hands-on experience during births. It is always best to ask your doula if you have any doubts related to their qualifications. There are uncertified doulas too, they could be your supportive friends or family members. They too can still offer valuable help, though their knowledge may be more limited.ALSO READ: Could You Be Pregnant And Not Know It?What is a Midwife?The main difference between a midwife and a doula is the professional medical training. A midwife is a trained medical professional specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Midwives can serve as independent healthcare providers for the entire prenatal and birthing process, and their training equips them to manage a variety of medical situations.Types of Midwives:Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs):CNMs are registered nurses with advanced degrees in midwifery. They can perform many of the same duties as doctors, including prescribing medications, monitoring fetal health, and delivering babies. CNMs often work in hospitals but may also practice in clinics, birth centers, or homes.Certified Direct-Entry Midwives (CPMs):These midwives do not need nursing degrees but undergo specialized midwifery training. They typically focus on out-of-hospital births, such as those at home or in birthing centers.Roles and Responsibilities:Midwives provide medical care, such as prenatal check-ups, labor monitoring, and postpartum evaluations. They are trained to handle complications and emergencies, including postpartum hemorrhages and neonatal resuscitation. While midwives encourage unmedicated births, they fully support parents who choose pharmacological pain relief.Certification and Licensing:Midwives must complete rigorous training and obtain certifications based on their specialization. CNMs are certified through the American Midwifery Certification Board, while CPMs are certified via the North American Registry of Midwives. Licensure requirements vary by state, but midwives must meet recognized educational and clinical standards.Choosing a Doula, a Midwife, or BothThe most critical factor in choosing a doula or midwife is finding someone you trust and feel comfortable with. Both professionals can play unique and complementary roles in your birthing journey.For Emotional Support: A doula offers continuous labor support and advocacy, making them a valuable addition to hospital and home births alike.For Medical Expertise: A midwife is essential for managing prenatal care and addressing complications during childbirth.Many parents opt for both, combining the emotional support of a doula with the medical expertise of a midwife for a well-rounded birthing experience.

doula vs midwife: is there a difference?

Health and Me

Women Are Now Waiting More Before Becoming A Mother, Age Trend Shows A Trend In Delayed Motherhood From 2016 to 2023

Why US Moms Are Facing A Decline In Mental Health?

why us moms are facing a decline in mental health?

Health & Wellness

Why Your 20s and 30s Aren’t 'Too Early' To Worry About Diabetes Risks

why your 20s and 30s aren’t 'too early' to worry about diabetes risks

90% Of Young Men In Their 20s And 30s Are Unaware Of This Fast-Rising Cancer Threat

90% of young men in their 20s and 30s are unaware of this fast-rising cancer threat

Health News

CDC Budget Cuts May Hit Women With Chronic Diseases Like Sickle Cell The Hardest

cdc budget cuts may hit women with chronic diseases like sickle cell the hardest

Are more and more women delaying their motherhood in the United States? Data seems to show this trend. The average age of mothers at childbirth in the United States have continued to rise. A new report released on June 13 by the National Vital Statistic System (NVSS), provides the shift in age trends between 2016 and 2023. The study, conducted by Andrea D. Brown, Ph.D., M.P.H., and her colleagues at the National Center for Health Statistics.

<h4>A Shift Towards Later Motherhood</h4>

The researchers found a clear increase in the mean age of mothers at the time of their first birth. In 2016, the average age of a first-time mother was 26.6 years. By 2023, this had risen to 27.5 years — nearly a full year’s difference in just seven years.

But the trend isn’t limited to first-time mothers. For women having their second child, the average age rose by one year, while those giving birth to a third child or beyond saw an increase of 0.9 years. These shifts reflect a broader societal trend toward delayed childbearing, often influenced by factors such as education, career planning, financial stability, and access to reproductive health services.

<h4>What The Trends Show Across Demographics</h4>

Notably, the increase in maternal age was observed across all racial and ethnic groups, with rises ranging from 0.4 to 1.4 years between 2016 and 2023. This indicates that the pattern of delayed childbearing is not confined to one particular group but is a nationwide phenomenon affecting diverse communities.

Urbanization also plays a role. The report shows a consistent rise in maternal age at first birth across all types of counties — from densely populated urban areas to rural regions. Women living in large metropolitan counties had the highest mean age at first birth in 2023, averaging 28.5 years. In contrast, women in noncore (rural) counties had the lowest average at 24.8 years. Nonetheless, even these rural areas experienced an increase in age, with the average rising by 0.7 to 0.9 years depending on the county type.

“The mean age of mothers at childbirth in the United States increased from 2016 through 2023, continuing the long-term trend toward delayed childbearing,” the authors noted. This upward shift builds on similar findings from previous years and highlights a steady cultural change in how and when women choose to have children.

Delaying childbirth can have both benefits and challenges. On one hand, it often correlates with improved financial and emotional readiness, access to healthcare, and better outcomes for children. On the other hand, advanced maternal age can also bring higher risks for complications during pregnancy and childbirth, making ongoing medical monitoring and support essential.

Understanding maternal age trends helps public health experts, policymakers, and healthcare providers better plan for the needs of pregnant women and infants. It also reflects broader shifts in societal expectations, gender roles, and reproductive choices in the United States today.

As this trend continues, experts are calling for more inclusive policies and better support systems for parents — no matter when they decide to start their families.

age trend shows delayed motherhood in us

parenting

delayed motherhood

why are moms delaying motherhood

us health

Are more and more women delaying their motherhood in the United States? Data seems to show this trend. The average age of mothers at childbirth in the United States have continued to rise. A new report released on June 13 by the National Vital Statistic System (NVSS), provides the shift in age trends between 2016 and 2023. The study, conducted by Andrea D. Brown, Ph.D., M.P.H., and her colleagues at the National Center for Health Statistics.A Shift Towards Later MotherhoodThe researchers found a clear increase in the mean age of mothers at the time of their first birth. In 2016, the average age of a first-time mother was 26.6 years. By 2023, this had risen to 27.5 years — nearly a full year’s difference in just seven years.But the trend isn’t limited to first-time mothers. For women having their second child, the average age rose by one year, while those giving birth to a third child or beyond saw an increase of 0.9 years. These shifts reflect a broader societal trend toward delayed childbearing, often influenced by factors such as education, career planning, financial stability, and access to reproductive health services.What The Trends Show Across DemographicsNotably, the increase in maternal age was observed across all racial and ethnic groups, with rises ranging from 0.4 to 1.4 years between 2016 and 2023. This indicates that the pattern of delayed childbearing is not confined to one particular group but is a nationwide phenomenon affecting diverse communities.Urbanization also plays a role. The report shows a consistent rise in maternal age at first birth across all types of counties — from densely populated urban areas to rural regions. Women living in large metropolitan counties had the highest mean age at first birth in 2023, averaging 28.5 years. In contrast, women in noncore (rural) counties had the lowest average at 24.8 years. Nonetheless, even these rural areas experienced an increase in age, with the average rising by 0.7 to 0.9 years depending on the county type.“The mean age of mothers at childbirth in the United States increased from 2016 through 2023, continuing the long-term trend toward delayed childbearing,” the authors noted. This upward shift builds on similar findings from previous years and highlights a steady cultural change in how and when women choose to have children.Delaying childbirth can have both benefits and challenges. On one hand, it often correlates with improved financial and emotional readiness, access to healthcare, and better outcomes for children. On the other hand, advanced maternal age can also bring higher risks for complications during pregnancy and childbirth, making ongoing medical monitoring and support essential.Why Does It Matter?Understanding maternal age trends helps public health experts, policymakers, and healthcare providers better plan for the needs of pregnant women and infants. It also reflects broader shifts in societal expectations, gender roles, and reproductive choices in the United States today.As this trend continues, experts are calling for more inclusive policies and better support systems for parents — no matter when they decide to start their families.

women are now waiting more before becoming a mother, age trend shows a trend in delayed motherhood from 2016 to 2023

Ayurveda

Could Ayurdeva Help Manage Anxiety?

could ayurdeva help manage anxiety?

Your Breathing Pattern Is 97% Unique, Just Like A Fingerprint, Study Finds

your breathing pattern is 97% unique, just like a fingerprint, study finds

Still Skeptical About Donating Blood? Experts Bust Myths Every First-Time Donor Should Know

still skeptical about donating blood? experts bust myths every first-time donor should know

Only about one in four mothers in the United States now say they are in “excellent” mental or physical health, according to a new study that reveals a sharp decline in maternal well-being over the past several years. The findings, published in JAMA Internal Medicine on Tuesday, underscore growing concerns around the <span>mental health</span> crisis affecting American families—especially mothers.

The study analyzed health data from 198,417 mothers with children under the age of 18, tracking changes from 2016 to 2023. Researchers found a significant drop in self-reported mental health among mothers during this period, with a smaller but still notable decline in physical health.

Using a four-point scale (excellent, very good, good, and fair/poor), the study revealed that the percentage of mothers reporting “excellent” mental health plummeted from 38.4% in 2016 to just 25.8% in 2023. At the same time, those reporting “good” mental health increased from 18.8% to 26.1%, while “fair/poor” mental health rose from 5.5% to 8.5%.

Physical health scores also declined. The proportion of moms reporting “excellent” physical health dropped from 28.0% to 23.9%. Meanwhile, the percentage describing their physical health as “good” grew from 24.3% to 28.1%, while those in the “fair/poor” category remained relatively stable.

The mental health decline was seen across all socioeconomic groups, but it was most pronounced among single mothers, women with lower levels of education, and those whose children are covered by public insurance. These findings echo long-standing concerns about disparities in health access and outcomes among women and underserved populations.

While the study also looked at male parents and noted similar downward trends in physical and mental health, fathers consistently reported better overall health than mothers. In 2023, the gap was particularly stark, with female parents 4 percentage points more likely than male parents to report “fair/poor” mental health.

<h4><span rel="noindex">Parenting</span> Under Pressure</h4>

This latest research builds on earlier warnings from public health officials. In 2023, former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory titled "Parents Under Pressure," which called attention to the toll caregiving takes on mental health.

“The work of parenting is essential not only for the health of children but also for the health of society,” Murthy wrote. “The well-being of parents and caregivers is directly linked to the well-being of their children.”

The authors of the JAMA study echoed that sentiment, linking their findings to broader national health trends, including rising rates of depression and anxiety among reproductive-age women.

While the study did not explore specific causes, researchers cited several possible contributors to the ongoing decline in maternal mental health. These include:

<ul><li>Limited access to mental health services</li><li>Social isolation</li><li>Increased substance use disorders</li><li>Broader societal stressors such as inflation, systemic racism, gun violence, and climate change</li></ul>

The authors also referenced a growing body of research suggesting that maternal health may be an early warning sign of declining public health overall, writing: “Our findings are supportive of the claim made by some scholars that maternal mortality may be a canary in the coal mine for women’s health more broadly.”

As concerns around maternal mental health intensify, the study highlights the urgent need for more targeted policies and accessible support systems to improve the well-being of mothers—and by extension, their children and families.

mom mental health

mom health

mental health

mother mental health

Only about one in four mothers in the United States now say they are in “excellent” mental or physical health, according to a new study that reveals a sharp decline in maternal well-being over the past several years. The findings, published in JAMA Internal Medicine on Tuesday, underscore growing concerns around the mental health crisis affecting American families—especially mothers.A Steep Decline Over TimeThe study analyzed health data from 198,417 mothers with children under the age of 18, tracking changes from 2016 to 2023. Researchers found a significant drop in self-reported mental health among mothers during this period, with a smaller but still notable decline in physical health.Using a four-point scale (excellent, very good, good, and fair/poor), the study revealed that the percentage of mothers reporting “excellent” mental health plummeted from 38.4% in 2016 to just 25.8% in 2023. At the same time, those reporting “good” mental health increased from 18.8% to 26.1%, while “fair/poor” mental health rose from 5.5% to 8.5%.Physical health scores also declined. The proportion of moms reporting “excellent” physical health dropped from 28.0% to 23.9%. Meanwhile, the percentage describing their physical health as “good” grew from 24.3% to 28.1%, while those in the “fair/poor” category remained relatively stable.Vulnerable Groups Hit HardestThe mental health decline was seen across all socioeconomic groups, but it was most pronounced among single mothers, women with lower levels of education, and those whose children are covered by public insurance. These findings echo long-standing concerns about disparities in health access and outcomes among women and underserved populations.While the study also looked at male parents and noted similar downward trends in physical and mental health, fathers consistently reported better overall health than mothers. In 2023, the gap was particularly stark, with female parents 4 percentage points more likely than male parents to report “fair/poor” mental health.Parenting Under PressureThis latest research builds on earlier warnings from public health officials. In 2023, former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory titled "Parents Under Pressure," which called attention to the toll caregiving takes on mental health.“The work of parenting is essential not only for the health of children but also for the health of society,” Murthy wrote. “The well-being of parents and caregivers is directly linked to the well-being of their children.”The authors of the JAMA study echoed that sentiment, linking their findings to broader national health trends, including rising rates of depression and anxiety among reproductive-age women.What’s Behind the Decline?While the study did not explore specific causes, researchers cited several possible contributors to the ongoing decline in maternal mental health. These include:Limited access to mental health servicesSocial isolationIncreased substance use disordersBroader societal stressors such as inflation, systemic racism, gun violence, and climate changeThe authors also referenced a growing body of research suggesting that maternal health may be an early warning sign of declining public health overall, writing: “Our findings are supportive of the claim made by some scholars that maternal mortality may be a canary in the coal mine for women’s health more broadly.”As concerns around maternal mental health intensify, the study highlights the urgent need for more targeted policies and accessible support systems to improve the well-being of mothers—and by extension, their children and families.

Tanya Dutt

Men's Mental Health Week 2025: This Is What Happens When You Teach Boys To Feel, Not Just Fight

Can Dads-to-Be Experience Pregnancy Symptoms Too?

can dads-to-be experience pregnancy symptoms too?

‘The Boys’ Star Erin Moriarty Reveals Graves’ Disease Diagnosis- Talks About Symptoms She Overlooked And Urges Fans 'Go Get Checked'

‘the boys’ star erin moriarty reveals graves’ disease diagnosis- talks about symptoms she overlooked and urges fans 'go get checked'

These Twins Were Diagnosed With Same Cancer, Just A Month Apart

these twins were diagnosed with same cancer, just a month apart

Father's Day 2025: Why Dad’s Midlife Belly Is A Serious Health Risk You Can’t Ignore

father's day 2025: why dad’s midlife belly is a serious health risk you can’t ignore

<span>Men's Mental Health Week</span> is a movement that highlights the unique <span>mental health</span> challenges men face. It encourages open communication, emotional connection, and breaking the stigma over vulnerability. Through early intervention, emotional literacy, and support structures, the week seeks to empower men towards prioritizing mental health without shame.

We make men out of boys to be tough, bold, and brave, but at what expense? Studies reveal that stifling emotions early in life can have long-term effects. Anxiety, depression, addiction, and anger disorders tend to stem from childhood environments where emotions were discouraged. Yet, the world still encourages boys to be emotionally stoic, confusing silence with strength and holding things in as bravery.

Men's Mental Health Week highlights these problems, providing an international forum to break down the cultural, psychological, and emotional barriers that isolate men from themselves and from others. This year, the theme is concise but powerful: emotional fluency is strength. With mental health specialists, educators, and parents uniting, a message emerges clearly—change begins early. And it starts not only by instructing boys what not to feel, but by demonstrating them how to feel, express, and process what's inside.

<h2>When Boys Are Taught to Suppress, Men Struggle to Cope</h2>

A lot of adults nowadays are products of a childhood in which emotional expression was discouraged—particularly among boys. The "man up" culture instructed them to swallow their tears, muzzle their fears, and cover up their insecurities. But emotions don't go away just because they're suppressed. Unaddressed emotions seep through later in life as anxiety, irritability, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, or aberrant relationships. Men who weren't instructed in emotional skills become men who chase emotional anesthetization because they never learned to feel safely to begin with.

One of the most prevalent emotional coping strategies for men is blame—an outward deflection of internal conflict. When painful emotions such as fear, sadness, or shame are not worked through internally, they start to spill over. Rather than labeling or working with such feelings, men tend to resort to blaming others: their girlfriends, their coworkers, or even themselves.

Blame is an easy release valve—a means of pushing off discomfort instead of dealing with it. It tastes invigorating for a moment but has permanent harm. In one anecdotal example, a man describes how his unaddressed anger ultimately poisoned the people he loved the most. It wasn't until he noticed this pattern and the hurt behind it that healing and authentic connection started for him.

<h2>Why Emotional Awareness Isn't Soft</h2>

Educating boys about emotional awareness isn't about making them "soft." Instead, it makes them better decision-makers, more accomplished relationship-builders, and more resilient grown men. When men know what they feel, they gain the power to decide how to react, rather than blindly reacting.

This emotional intelligence does not only assist men in dealing with conflict—it assists them in flourishing. Whether selecting a profession that would value their principles, establishing supportive partnerships, or being emotionally available dads, emotional fluency opens doors, instead of closing them.

<h2>Teaching Boys the Language of Emotions</h2>

So, how do we start? Body awareness is the foundation. Emotions appear initially in the form of bodily sensations—tightness in the chest, lump in the throat, flutter in the belly. It is important to teach boys to identify these warnings and link them with emotional events.

Then parents and teachers can help enable safe emotional expression. When a boy tells you how he's feeling, don't correct him or tell him to "toughen up." Instead, respond with curiosity and compassion. Ask questions such as, "What do you think made you feel that way?" or "What do you need in this moment?" This both affirms his experience and builds his emotional vocabulary.

Along the way, this establishes trust—with oneself and others. Someday, when these boys become men and find themselves with other men—maybe in locker rooms, workplaces, or group texts—they won't tumble into emotionally dysfunctional patterns such as teasing, denial, or aggression. Instead, they'll have the skills to respond in ways that demonstrate emotional maturity.

Restoring masculinity doesn't involve abandoning it—it involves redefining it. The most powerful men aren't the ones who never weep or get wounded. They're the ones who notice when they have, own up to it, and learn from it.

True masculinity, in the best possible way, is based on empathy, responsibility, and self-mastery. When boys are instructed that emotions aren't vulnerabilities but indicators—like hunger or tiredness—they no longer fear exposure and begin to cherish authenticity.

Parents play a critical role here. Modeling emotional openness, apologizing when you’ve overreacted, or simply sharing your own feelings openly can set a powerful example for your sons. Remember- when boys feel safe being emotionally honest at home, they carry that strength into every part of their lives.

men's mental health week

boys emotional intelligence

parenting boys mental health

raising emotionally strong boys

masculinity and emotions

mental health in men

teaching boys to feel

Men's Mental Health Week is a movement that highlights the unique mental health challenges men face. It encourages open communication, emotional connection, and breaking the stigma over vulnerability. Through early intervention, emotional literacy, and support structures, the week seeks to empower men towards prioritizing mental health without shame.We make men out of boys to be tough, bold, and brave, but at what expense? Studies reveal that stifling emotions early in life can have long-term effects. Anxiety, depression, addiction, and anger disorders tend to stem from childhood environments where emotions were discouraged. Yet, the world still encourages boys to be emotionally stoic, confusing silence with strength and holding things in as bravery.Men's Mental Health Week highlights these problems, providing an international forum to break down the cultural, psychological, and emotional barriers that isolate men from themselves and from others. This year, the theme is concise but powerful: emotional fluency is strength. With mental health specialists, educators, and parents uniting, a message emerges clearly—change begins early. And it starts not only by instructing boys what not to feel, but by demonstrating them how to feel, express, and process what's inside.When Boys Are Taught to Suppress, Men Struggle to CopeA lot of adults nowadays are products of a childhood in which emotional expression was discouraged—particularly among boys. The "man up" culture instructed them to swallow their tears, muzzle their fears, and cover up their insecurities. But emotions don't go away just because they're suppressed. Unaddressed emotions seep through later in life as anxiety, irritability, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, or aberrant relationships. Men who weren't instructed in emotional skills become men who chase emotional anesthetization because they never learned to feel safely to begin with.One of the most prevalent emotional coping strategies for men is blame—an outward deflection of internal conflict. When painful emotions such as fear, sadness, or shame are not worked through internally, they start to spill over. Rather than labeling or working with such feelings, men tend to resort to blaming others: their girlfriends, their coworkers, or even themselves.Blame is an easy release valve—a means of pushing off discomfort instead of dealing with it. It tastes invigorating for a moment but has permanent harm. In one anecdotal example, a man describes how his unaddressed anger ultimately poisoned the people he loved the most. It wasn't until he noticed this pattern and the hurt behind it that healing and authentic connection started for him.Why Emotional Awareness Isn't SoftEducating boys about emotional awareness isn't about making them "soft." Instead, it makes them better decision-makers, more accomplished relationship-builders, and more resilient grown men. When men know what they feel, they gain the power to decide how to react, rather than blindly reacting.This emotional intelligence does not only assist men in dealing with conflict—it assists them in flourishing. Whether selecting a profession that would value their principles, establishing supportive partnerships, or being emotionally available dads, emotional fluency opens doors, instead of closing them.Teaching Boys the Language of EmotionsSo, how do we start? Body awareness is the foundation. Emotions appear initially in the form of bodily sensations—tightness in the chest, lump in the throat, flutter in the belly. It is important to teach boys to identify these warnings and link them with emotional events.Then parents and teachers can help enable safe emotional expression. When a boy tells you how he's feeling, don't correct him or tell him to "toughen up." Instead, respond with curiosity and compassion. Ask questions such as, "What do you think made you feel that way?" or "What do you need in this moment?" This both affirms his experience and builds his emotional vocabulary.Along the way, this establishes trust—with oneself and others. Someday, when these boys become men and find themselves with other men—maybe in locker rooms, workplaces, or group texts—they won't tumble into emotionally dysfunctional patterns such as teasing, denial, or aggression. Instead, they'll have the skills to respond in ways that demonstrate emotional maturity.Restoring masculinity doesn't involve abandoning it—it involves redefining it. The most powerful men aren't the ones who never weep or get wounded. They're the ones who notice when they have, own up to it, and learn from it.True masculinity, in the best possible way, is based on empathy, responsibility, and self-mastery. When boys are instructed that emotions aren't vulnerabilities but indicators—like hunger or tiredness—they no longer fear exposure and begin to cherish authenticity.Parents play a critical role here. Modeling emotional openness, apologizing when you’ve overreacted, or simply sharing your own feelings openly can set a powerful example for your sons. Remember- when boys feel safe being emotionally honest at home, they carry that strength into every part of their lives.

men's mental health week 2025: this is what happens when you teach boys to feel, not just fight

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Doula vs Midwife: Is There A Difference?

Quick Stories

Women Are Now Waiting More Before Becoming A Mother, Age Trend Shows Motherhood From 2016 to 2023

Why US Moms Are Facing A Decline In Mental Health?

Men's Mental Health Week 2025: This Is What Happens When You Teach Boys To Feel, Not Just Fight

Health Conditions A-Z

Spike In ‘Gas Station Heroin’ Use Sparks National Health Warning

Women Are Now Waiting More Before Becoming A Mother, Age Trend Shows Motherhood From 2016 to 2023

Lethal Fungus Is Spreading Across Many US States, Why Is It Concerning?