Everyone deals with stress. Some stress can be a good thing, serving as a motivational tool. But, too much of it can wreak havoc on your physical and mental well-being, and even lead to other health issues.
Because everyone has stress, everyone has to deal with it in ways that work for them. That varies from person to person, but also between men and women. There are a variety of factors that contribute to these differences, from hormones and brain structure to societal norms and expectations.
With that in mind, let’s look at why men and women handle stress differently, and whether one way of coping is better.
Hormonal Differences
Women’s bodies naturally produce more oxytocin when in stressful situations. This can cause them to adopt a “tend and befriend” response, wanting to bond with others to reduce stress. Men, on the other hand, often adopt a “fight-or-flight” response when it comes to stress thanks to an increase in testosterone. That boost can cause their heart rate to increase and adrenaline levels to spike.
Biology and Brain Structure
In addition to hormonal differences, other biological factors cause men and women to handle stress differently, including the brain’s structure.
For example, women are more likely to ruminate under stressful situations. They can focus on negative thoughts and “what if” scenarios, often making the stress worse and potentially causing anxiety.
Men tend to experience an increase in activity in the prefrontal cortex when they’re stressed. That is the area of the brain responsible for problem-solving and decision-making. It also helps with emotional regulation, so men might be more likely to look for solutions to their stress, even if that means sometimes seeking out unhealthy ways of coping.
Societal Factors
Unfortunately, there is still some stigma surrounding men’s mental health. That kind of stigma, along with expectations set in place by societal norms, can significantly influence the way men and women deal with stress.
Men are often more likely to internalize stress to appear firmer. Women are often more likely to seek out help and support from others.
Ways of coping can also be different based on societal norms. Men are more likely to use problem-solving skills to solve their stress, while women tend to lean on emotional strategies, including talking to others.
Is There a Better Way to Handle Stress?
There isn’t one “right” or “wrong” way to handle stress. Biological factors don’t change; societal norms will likely remain in place for quite some time without changing. So, to say that men and women will change how they handle stress is unlikely.
The most important thing to consider, no matter your sex, is how you’re actually coping. Again, it might be more common for men to try to hide their stress or lean into unhealthy ways of coping just to deal with it. On the other hand, women might let their emotions take control and allow stress to turn into anxiety.
Whether you’re a man or a woman, finding healthy ways of coping is necessary. Everything from physical activity to practicing mindfulness can reduce stress. Deep breathing exercises, journaling, and meditating can also go a long way in helping you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed by stress.
Working with a mental health professional is one of the best things you can do to manage stress. Men’s counseling is a great way to better understand the source of your stress while learning healthy ways to manage it. Like stress, therapy doesn’t discriminate, and is tailored to help you, personally, rather than focusing solely on your gender. If you’re ready to take that step, please reach out today.
