The Unsuitable Man: A Tale of Societal Pressures and Inner Struggles
As we step into 2025, it's time to reflect on the silent battles many men fight every day—their struggle to balance societal expectations, emotional well-being, and the constant pressure of being a provider. This blog sheds light on the overlooked realities of men’s mental health and societal roles, through the story of a man named Merth, a seemingly "unsuitable" man in the eyes of the world but a deeply human soul beneath the labels.
The Early Years: A Burden That Begins Early
When Merth was born, he was celebrated with joy and pride, as many male children are. The family saw him as their legacy bearer, someone who would one-day shoulder responsibilities and bring honor to their name.
As a child, Merth was showered with love, care, and attention. However, as he grew, the expectations started piling up. By the time he was ten, phrases like "boys don't cry" and "be a man" became a regular part of his upbringing. Showing vulnerability was discouraged, and he quickly learned that his emotions were less important than his ability to be "strong."
At school, Merth was expected to excel academically and on the playground. Society’s unsaid rules demanded that he be competitive, assertive, and tough—traits deemed essential for a “real man.” Over time, this constant push to fit into a predefined mold began to chip away at his sense of self.
The Young Adult: The Provider’s Mantle
By the time Merth entered adulthood, the narrative shifted from “be strong” to “provide.” He was now responsible for building a career, supporting his family, and securing a stable future. Society demanded financial success as the ultimate marker of his worth.
But what if the path wasn’t as straightforward for Merth as it seemed for others?
Merth was a dreamer at heart, passionate about art and literature. Yet, he was constantly reminded that such pursuits weren’t “practical” for a man. To meet expectations, he chose a corporate job that drained his spirit but satisfied societal norms. With each passing day, he felt like a piece of himself was being lost.
The Pressure Cooker of Expectations
Merth’s life became a series of ticking boxes:
A good job: Check.
A house loan: Check.
Marriage and kids: Check.
Outwardly, Merth appeared to be thriving, but internally, he was crumbling under the weight of expectations. Every decision he made seemed to be dictated by what others thought he “should” do.
At work, the pressure to outperform and climb the corporate ladder was relentless. At home, he faced the unspoken demand to be the rock of the family, even when he was barely holding himself together.
The most heart-wrenching part was the lack of space for his emotions. On days when he felt overwhelmed, Merth was met with responses like “You’ll figure it out, you’re a man” or “Everyone goes through this, stop complaining.”
The Breaking Point
One evening, after a particularly grueling day at work, Merth sat in his car, unable to muster the energy to go home. He looked at himself in the rearview mirror and saw a man he no longer recognized.
It wasn’t the failures that haunted him—it was the constant need to appear invincible, even when he was at his weakest. Merth realized he had spent his entire life trying to fit into a societal system that never acknowledged his individuality or humanity.
The Awakening: Redefining Masculinity
Merth’s story didn’t end with despair. That night, he made a choice—to reclaim his identity.
He sought therapy, a step many men hesitate to take due to the stigma around mental health. Through therapy, Merth began to unlearn the toxic ideas he had been conditioned to believe. He embraced his vulnerability, allowing himself to express emotions he had suppressed for years.
Merth also reconnected with his love for art, starting a side project where he painted his life’s struggles and joys. For the first time, he felt a sense of purpose that wasn’t tied to societal approval.
The Bigger Picture: What Merth’s Story Teaches Us
Merth’s journey is not unique—it reflects the reality of countless men around the world. The societal pressure to be stoic providers has pushed many into silent struggles, making them feel inadequate for simply being human.
Here are some takeaways from Merth’s story:
1. Vulnerability is Strength: Men should be allowed to express emotions without fear of judgment. Crying, seeking help, or admitting struggles are signs of strength, not weakness.
2. Redefining Success: Success should not be limited to financial achievements. Men should be encouraged to pursue passions and define success on their terms.
3. Breaking the Stigma: Mental health is as important for men as it is for women. Normalizing therapy and emotional conversations can save lives.
4. Shared Responsibility: The burden of providing shouldn’t fall solely on men. Shared responsibilities in families and partnerships create healthier dynamics.
Conclusion: A Call for Compassion
Merth’s story is a reminder that behind the societal label of “provider,” every man is a human being with dreams, emotions, and struggles. It’s time to break the chains of toxic masculinity and create a world where men can be themselves without fear or pressure.
As we move forward in 2025, let’s challenge outdated stereotypes and build a society where every individual—man or woman—can thrive authentically.
Because at the end of the day, being human is not about fitting into a mold; it’s about embracing our true selves.