Half of Australian men ‘uncomfortable’ expressing emotion

• Almost two-thirds uncomfortable expressing sadness – and nearly 80% uncomfortable expressing fear
• 3-in-10 have never cried in front of a partner/significant other

In the lead-up to the football grand final this coming weekend – and Mental Health Awareness Month in October, research* released by Medibank has found just over half (53%) of Australian men feel uncomfortable about expressing their emotions.

When it comes to expressing emotions when watching sports specifically, 28% are uncomfortable with public displays of emotion. If watching sport on their own at home however, 89% say they were OK expressing emotion.

As one footy team’s fanbase will be more elated than the other come the final siren, the findings suggest that more than two-thirds (76%) of men may feel comfortable expressing their happiness for the result in front of others. In contrast, more than one-third (37%) may feel comfortable demonstrating sadness should their team not take home the ultimate prize.

Polled on the range of emotions, Aussie males also reported feeling ‘uncomfortable’ expressing fear (78%), disgust (68%) and anger (64%) when they are with others.

To bring men’s emotion into the conversation and normalise the expression of emotion, Medibank has partnered with media personality and Sunrise Sports Presenter, Mark Beretta, to discuss the report’s findings.

“Growing up in regional Victoria, sport has always been a big part of my life. I’ll admit, my competitive nature sometimes gets the better of me, and I’ve shed a few tears for my team and for many special moments that have captured my heart. But I was shocked to learn that more than half of Australian men are uncomfortable expressing their emotions."

“Emotion is what makes us human. Passion and compassion are part of all our lives, so it's completely normal to get emotional. Our feelings don't need to be buried because of what others might think or say. It's OK to let it out. In fact, I think it makes you more of a man,” said Mark.

The report showed younger males were most affected, with more than one-quarter of men aged 18–24 feeling ‘very uncomfortable’ to express emotions, followed by men in the 25–34 years age range (22%) and then 35–45 years (17%).

Four in 10 of the younger demographic polled said they have never cried in front of their partner/significant other – a contrasting statistic compared to the 74% of respondents aged over 65 who have.

Medibank Chief Medical Officer Dr Linda Swan has expressed concerns around the difficulty young men can experience when it comes to expressing their emotions.

“Emotions are incredibly normal, and the full spectrum of emotions are something we can experience during our lifetime. However, when emotions are repeatedly suppressed for periods of time, this may contribute to poorer emotional and mental health.”

Medibank has created Live Better to support the health and wellbeing of all Australians. Live Better includes an online health hub that features a guide to mental health, mindfulness and connecting with others.