Understanding the differences will help you empathize and reach out to the man who mourns. I didn't let anyone see me cry, comments Curtis, whose wife died of cancer. Actually, I did my best not to cry at all. In our society, many men find it difficult to express their personal feelings and needs. The natural need to talk about one s grief may conflict with the traditional belief that a man must always be in control of his emotions.
Many men find it difficult to show their grief around others.
Friends and family may think he s over it when, in fact, he is still hurting. Many men try to distract themselves with their jobs. They strongly desire to maintain productivity and are often discouraged when, quite normally, they have less energy and less attention to give their work because of their grief. Often men prefer to take action instead of confronting their feelings. They may increase their physical activity or overcommit themselves to employment or community service.