Northeast Health Services is dedicated to supporting your mental health. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for immediate support through your local crisis services by dialing 988, contacting your local emergency services, or visiting your local emergency room.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition worldwide, affecting an estimated 359 million people in 2021.¹ Yet for many men, anxiety goes unrecognized and untreated. While men are often reported as having lower rates of diagnosed anxiety disorders than women, those numbers do not tell the whole story. Men’s anxiety can look different, shaped by cultural expectations, gender roles, and the way men are taught to handle emotions.²
Understanding how anxiety shows up in men is key to making sure they get the support they need.
Anxiety symptoms in men: what to know
Men often experience anxiety differently than what is described in diagnostic checklists. While the standard criteria for generalized anxiety disorder include restlessness, fatigue, irritability, and trouble sleeping, men may be more likely to report physical symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Muscle pain or tension
- Stomach or digestive issues
- Panic attacks or sudden chest tightness²
These symptoms can be overlooked, especially if men themselves interpret them as physical problems rather than signs of anxiety. For example, a man may see repeated stomach pain as a gastrointestinal issue without realizing it is connected to his anxiety. This can delay treatment and make symptoms worse over time.
The role of masculinity
Traditional ideas about masculinity, such as toughness, independence, and self-reliance, often discourage men from showing fear or vulnerability. As a result, men may hide or downplay their anxiety symptoms. Some rely heavily on problem-solving, distraction, or self-medication with alcohol or substances rather than reaching out for help.²
For many men, feelings of shame or self-blame make it even harder to acknowledge anxiety. Worry and fear may be seen as weakness, leading men to avoid discussing their struggles with friends, family, or providers. This reluctance can create a cycle: the longer symptoms are hidden, the more severe they may become.
How anxiety may show up differently in men
- Avoidance instead of openness: Men may cope by avoiding situations or bottling up emotions rather than talking about their fears.
- Irritability or anger: Anxiety can sometimes appear as frustration or irritability, which may be misinterpreted by others as impatience or short temper.
- Risk-taking or withdrawal: Some men may mask anxiety by taking risks, such as reckless driving or substance use, while others may pull away from social connections.
- Physical health issues: Anxiety may be reported through physical complaints rather than emotional ones, making it more likely to be missed during medical visits.
These patterns show that anxiety in men may not always match what people expect. Recognizing these differences can help loved ones and providers notice when support is needed.
Why early recognition matters
If left untreated, anxiety can increase the risk of depression, substance use, and even suicide.² Men between the ages of 15 and 44 face particularly high suicide rates worldwide, and unrecognized anxiety plays a role in this risk.²
Early recognition matters because anxiety is treatable. The sooner men are able to identify what they are experiencing, the sooner they can begin therapy, develop coping strategies, and see meaningful improvements in daily life. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is an important step toward protecting health and well-being.
Support and treatment
The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable, and recovery is possible with the right supports. Therapy can help men learn new coping strategies, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and reduce physical symptoms of stress.
At Northeast Health Services, our providers offer:
- Therapy tailored to your needs and preferences, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based modalities.
- Psychiatric medication management when appropriate, to help ease symptoms and support stability.
- Collaboration with community resources and support networks that strengthen long-term well-being.
Some men benefit most from a combination of therapy and medication, while others prefer to focus on therapy alone. Providers at NEHS work closely with each client to find an approach that feels manageable and effective.
Moving forward
Anxiety does not have to remain hidden. By recognizing how anxiety symptoms in men may look different, from physical complaints to irritability or avoidance, we can better support men in seeking help.
Northeast Health Services is here to help you manage your mental health. For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
Sources:
1. World Health Organization. Anxiety disorders. Published September 8, 2023. Accessed 08.20.2025.