Women aren’t the only ones who deal with self-esteem issues. In fact, men also encounter body image issues and lack of confidence. Some of these triggers are the result of aging, while others stem from feelings of inadequacy. Here are 5 issues that can cause low self-esteem in men and ways to address them.
Weight Gain
Weight is a universal issue when it comes to low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Both men and women struggle with body image issues. What makes these issues more difficult for men than women is that they’re not as widely accepted. It’s all too common for women to compare themselves to celebrities and models who have, what’s deemed to be, the “perfect” body. But men are expected to be strong and virtually unaffected by the pressure to look a certain way. But the fact is, this simply isn’t true.
Thousands of men secretly compare themselves to actors and athletes with ripped abs, giant biceps, and killer smiles. It’s human nature to want to feel desired and attractive. So whether or not you realize it, many men feel self-conscious and inadequate in comparison to the buff young studs depicted in movies and television. Although acceptance should come from within and not be based strictly on appearance, maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in physical activity will help boost a man’s overall mood while also slimming him down.
Men should exercise at least three to five times per week. To increase muscle mass, men need to incorporate plenty of weight training into their regime. Protein supplements can help with building lean muscle. A balanced diet, free of processed and fatty foods will also help men slim down and start feeling more confident and comfortable in their own skin.
Hair Loss
Going bald is one of man’s greatest fears. One of the main reasons for this is that many men associate hair loss with aging, when in fact, there are many other reasons and causes for male pattern baldness. And it can happen at any age. One of the major causes of baldness in men is genetics. Other causes include taking certain medications, a thyroid imbalance or nutritional deficiencies. If you notice hair loss beginning at your temples or the crown of the head, these could be early signs of hair loss. But there are many options available for treating this condition. Depending on the severity, certain hair styles can help hide and cover bald spots.
Another option is purchasing a hair piece or wig. Some men may opt for topical treatments like rogaine or finasteride but it’s important to do your research first because some of these medications can cause side effects including weight gain, chest pains, and skin irritation. Hair transplants are another, more permanent, hair loss treatment option for men. All of these things can help a man feel more confident and attractive despite thinning hair.
Erectile Dysfunction and Penis Size
If there’s one thing that can cause low self-esteem in men more than anything else, it’s anything related to their penis or sexual performance. Men place a lot of importance on not only the size and girth of their penis but also how well they can use it in the bedroom. Erectile dysfunction is a common issue that affects more than 50% of men at one time or another. Erectile dysfunction isn’t categorized as any one, specific issue but instead encompasses anything that makes it difficult for a man to get and maintain an erection during sex. External factors can include stress, certain medications, lack of sleep, and high blood pressure. Here, you can see more ways to help treat erectile dysfunction.
Most men take pride in their ability to sexually please their partner. Even if a man has no problem getting and maintaining an erection, the size of their penis may be cause for concern or feelings of inadequacy. The average male penis is only 5.16 inches when fully erect. This means that many men have an average size penis but may compare themselves to others and believe that anything less than 8 inches is “too small”. There are ways to increase penis size including penile implants, penis pumps, and other medications, although these methods are not proven to work long term.
Financial Inadequacy
It’s natural for men to take on the role of protector and provider. There’s a certain level of pride that comes into play in terms of being the “breadwinner” in a relationship or supporting one’s’ family. Although some might believe these thoughts are rather archaic, they still affect a large percentage of the male population. If a man has recently suffered a job loss or substantial decrease in pay, this may directly affect his self esteem. He may feel less than a man and unable to provide for loved ones. Most men find satisfaction and joy in giving their partners what they feel they deserve.
Without financial stability and a high-paying job, some men may feel less than worthy of a successful and loving partner. Men can change careers, seek counseling, or advance their education in the hopes of boosting their bank accounts and their confidence. Budgeting and downsizing is also another option until you get financially back on your feet. It’s also important to recognize and acknowledge that your partner probably loves you for the person you are not because of the money you make. Try seeing value in your other contributions that aren’t monetary.
Intimidating Partner
Nothing makes a man feel less like a man than an intimidating partner. Whether the person is more physically attractive, has a better, higher paying job, more friends or an advanced education, a man can easily feel “less than” if his partner outshines his accomplishments. All of these feelings stem directly from low self-esteem, which was probably present long before the man entered his current relationship. Men who are with a partner that is either younger or more attractive may feel insecure, jealous, and paranoid. They might feel as if they don’t deserve to be with someone so attractive and in-turn, push that person away.
Oftentimes men take their own shortcomings and their partner’s success as a direct, personal attack when this is far from the case. Your partner shouldn’t need to alter their own behaviors or success in order to boost your ego. You should be happy that your partner wants to be with you and acknowledge why. You’re probably a great guy with a lot to offer. Why else would this person want to be with you? Be proud of your partner and their accomplishments. If you want to feel the same pride and success, you must work for it. Let your successful partner lift you up and inspire you, not make you feel bad or inadequate.
Men experience low self-esteem just as women do and often for similar reasons. Don’t think men are immune to worry about their appearance, success, and sexuality. But with a little care and attention, all of these issues can be addressed and men can soon feel confident and secure in themselves.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
