Could understanding how men truly process grief change the way we approach mental health?
In this episode of The Meaning of Men, therapist and author Tom Golden reveals how men process emotions differently—and why that often goes unrecognised. Tom shares his journey into grief therapy, where he discovered that traditional talk-based methods weren’t working for his male clients. Instead, men tend to heal through action—building, creating, or physically doing something that helps them process their emotions.

We discuss the signs of male depression, which often show up as anger, withdrawal, or overworking rather than visible sadness. Tom also highlights the pressures men face—from biological instincts to cultural expectations—that make opening up feel like a risk. He also offers practical advice on how to support grieving men: forget forcing conversations, and instead, meet them where they are—side by side, engaged in an activity that allows emotions to surface naturally.