Whenever toxic masculinity is introduced into a conversation, we tend to shy away from the topic. This is not only frustrating, it is also very dangerous.

  The definition of the term branches out immensely, as no one can really agree on what it means – some people take offense at the term and others believe it denotes the assertion of male dominance over women.

   Toxic masculinity is the general societal expectation of men that was introduced to them at a young age to act a certain way and believe certain things. In reality, it not only affects men, but it affects our society as a whole.   

  Toxic masculinity has become an epidemic, evident by male suicide which has reached an all-time high – men are 3.5 times more likely to commit suicide than females, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Toxic masculinity might not be the leading cause of these startling rates, but it is certainly a big factor.

  Gender stereotypes certainly reflect the problem of toxic masculinity. Females are often stereotyped for oversharing their feelings, while males are stereotyped for undersharing. And this is not just a stereotype – many men feel like they can’t share their thoughts or feelings out of fear of peer judgment.

   This is ridiculous. Society has always taught men to “man up” and to “suck it up.” How can anyone be expected to do this when you’re not mentally healthy?