Staying Mentally Healthy in Fatherhood: A Q&A With Thrive Wellness Reno Therapist Brett Glanzmann, MFT

Thrive • June 19, 2022

Many fathers understandably struggle to keep up with the demands of marriage, parenthood, employment, and their other responsibilities. Popular misleading messages surrounding the role of fathers as stoic, strong, and capable providers discourage many from seeking support for mental health concerns. Therapy, however, can be vital to not only a father’s well-being, but their entire family’s well-being. Learn more about paternal mental health in this perceptive Q&A with Thrive Wellness Reno Therapist Brett Glanzmann, MFT.

What mental health concerns do fathers commonly face? 

Time, physical energy, and emotional energy are limited resources. When a family experiences a sudden increase in the demand for those resources, fathers may find it difficult to “keep all the plates spinning.” In order to conserve more time and energy for parenthood, fathers often sacrifice their self-care and replenishing activities, which places them at risk for mental health concerns. Many of my clients in fatherhood report lack of sleep , stress, anxiety , and depression

The mental health struggles of single fathers are similar to those of partnered fathers except that their stresses can be magnified and their resources can be limited. Research s hows that single fathers are twice as likely to report poor mental and physical health as fathers with partners. While single mothers tend to have more financial stress, single fathers carry more caregiving stress. 

What are some contributing factors to the mental health challenges experienced by fathers?

Fathers frequently feel overwhelmed by what feels like having “the weight of the world” on their shoulders. Some report experiencing a loss of control over their lives and immediate environments. Many work during the day and arrive home in the evening to help with household tasks and parenting duties. They may only find time for themselves after everyone else has gone to sleep. When alone, they might engage in unhealthy “escapist” activities, such as excessively playing video games, watching television for hours into the night, or turning to substance use. These engagements may temporarily distract them from their worries, but do little to nourish their well-being. Fathers may also work extended hours because it feels less stressful than being at home. 

Another source of paternal mental health concerns is the changing nature of the partner relationship. As time and energy are diverted toward their children, many couples are unable to prioritize their relationships. Typically, the amount of quality time couples spend together decreases and sexual activity is put on hold. As a result, marital satisfaction can decline and conflict can heighten.  

Regarding single fathers, many are less than confident in their abilities to comfort their children through struggles and lack another person to share the emotional burden with. Often, single fathers face additional stress resulting from disagreements and custody disputes with their children’s biological mothers. Further, single fathers who care for their children full-time may be incredibly hard-pressed to find time to relax and recharge on their own.

Why might some fathers be hesitant to seek mental health support? 

In childhood, boys are commonly told to “man up” and “walk it off” when faced with distressing circumstances. Many learn to adopt the mistaken narrative that showing emotion is a sign of weakness. This cultural conditioning can prevent developing males and grown men from acknowledging and communicating their feelings, particularly those that are troublesome. Fathers may feel as if they must adhere to the culturally prescribed paternal identity of “protector of the family.” Due to these prominent ideas about masculinity and fatherhood, many fathers place their partners’ and child(ren’s) mental, emotional, and physical well-being before their own. 

A stigma exists around fathers who are struggling with mental health. Fathers may be discouraged from seeking help because they feel as if they should be able to handle their own problems. Even though seeking mental health support is becoming more acceptable for women and mothers, men and fathers seem to be lagging behind in the movement for mental wellness. 

How can fathers know when they should seek professional help?

When a father’s mental health deteriorates, they typically notice that other aspects of their life are negatively affected, especially their relationships with their partner and child(ren). The struggle to maintain healthy connections with those closest to them can cause their mental health to further suffer. By being honest with themselves about their struggles, fathers can disrupt this negative cycle and seek professional support before their mental health challenges become severe.

Fathers should seek mental health support when they notice:
  • Increased irritability
  • Disruptions in sleep 
  • Diminished work performance 
  • Increased participation in “escapist” activities, such as excessively playing video games, watching television for hours on end, or using substances. 
  • An inability to cope with stress 

Many fathers tend to minimize their struggles in relation to the concerns their partners or child(ren) may be facing, but they too deserve to address, heal, and nourish their mental health.   

How can fathers benefit from receiving mental health support? 

Fathers need support in their journeys just as much as anyone else. Mental health professionals can help both partnered fathers and single fathers prepare for the inevitable challenges that come with parenthood and develop strategies for balancing competing demands. In my own practice, my clients often lean on me for emotional support in their endeavor to balance their lives as they may not be able to find validation and guidance elsewhere. Therapy , both for individuals and couples, can also help single fathers and partnered fathers navigate different kinds of family systems, cultivate and maintain strong bonds within families, and ensure that both parents recognize the importance of each others’ roles in helping the family thrive. 

What are some simple day-to-day practices that fathers can do to support their mental health?

Emotional energy is a limited resource, so fathers should regularly engage in activities that recharge them. These may include reading, meditating, or spending one-on-one time with their children. 

Openly and honestly communicating with one’s partner or support system can also be a refreshing experience. For single fathers, it’s vital that they develop a support system, possibly made up of extended family and friends. While vulnerability may not come easily, having a few people with whom they can let down their guard can diffuse some of the pressures they face. 

For fathers with partners, I recommend that they have daily check-ins with their parenting partners. During these check-ins, partners should discuss their current energy levels and any possible schedule adjustments that might be helpful.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FATHERS AT THRIVE WELLNESS

Mental health concerns can hinder fathers from reaching their full potential as parents, husbands, and humans. Thrive Wellness therapists can guide fathers in discovering the root causes of their mental health challenges, learning healthy coping skills, and implementing actions to encourage overall well-being. Reach out to learn more. 

About the Contributor

Thrive Wellness Reno Therapist Brett Glanzmann, MFT

Brett Glanzmann, MFT, earned his master’s degree in counseling from the University of Nevada, Reno. He offers individual, couples, and family therapy, believing that people possess the resources required to maximize their quality of life. Brett has a specific passion for helping all types of couples rediscover their unique connection while growing in their communication skills. He enjoys helping his clients pursue meaning in their everyday lives, removing the obstacles that hinder growth and thriving. Brett also enjoys inclusive, faith-based counseling, having over 20 years of pastoral counseling experience in the Truckee Meadows.

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By Brianna Villalpando, LMSW, LCSW March 19, 2025
Teen eating disorders are serious. As a parent or caregiver, one of the most difficult situations you can face is noticing that your teen may be struggling with a basic human need like eating. Adolescence is already a rough period for many teens filled with fluctuating emotions, changing bodies, and social pressures. However, sometimes coping with these challenges can manifest in unhealthy ways, like developing complicated relationships with food, body image, control, or exercise. Many teens face body image issues as their bodies mature, excessive pressure to meet unrealistic expectations fueled by social media and peers, and emotional instability and anxiety during their adolescent years, all of which can combine to create the perfect storm for an eating disorder. These challenges can often make your teen more vulnerable to unhealthy coping mechanisms , such as restricting food intake, excessive exercise, or engaging in disordered eating behaviors . If you’ve started noticing signs that something may not be right, it’s essential to take action to help your teen get the support they need. Recognizing the Signs of an Eating Disorder Eating disorders can vary in appearance, but there are some common signs and symptoms to watch for. If you notice any of the following behaviors or changes in your teen, it may indicate a problem that requires further attention: Preoccupation with body image : Teens with eating disorders often show increased focus on their weight or appearance, frequently expressing dissatisfaction with their body. Excessive discussions about dieting : If your teen frequently talks about dieting, food restriction, “getting skinny,” or often makes weight-related comments, this could be a red flag. Obsession with calorie counts : Teens who are obsessed with tracking every calorie, comparing the caloric content of foods, or controlling their calorie-intake may be struggling with an eating disorder. 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It's important to emphasize empathy and understanding, conveying that your primary concern is your teen's health and well-being. Initiating this conversation compassionately can create an environment of trust and openness to explore the problem. Selecting a calm, comfortable, and private setting is vital so your teen feels safe discussing a sensitive topic that may cause them to feel anxiety or shame. Effective communication hinges on using open-ended questions and active listening. Encourage your teen to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. By actively listening, you validate their experience, making them feel heard and understood. Before diving into the conversation, educating yourself about eating disorders can provide a solid foundation for discussing the issue knowledgeably. Some quick preparation with research allows you to dispel myths and provide accurate information when you talk to your teen. Why It's Crucial to Seek Medical Help When you notice warning signs, it’s important not to wait to get help. Eating disorders can be life-threatening, both physically and emotionally. They take a serious toll on a teen’s health, affecting their metabolism, hormonal function, and overall well-being. Beyond the physical impact, eating disorders can often involve deeply ingrained psychological and emotional challenges, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and trauma. After an initial conversation, the first step is to schedule an appointment with a medical provider. Your teen’s primary care doctor or a pediatrician can help evaluate their physical health and provide guidance for next steps. Be prepared to discuss the specific behaviors or signs you’ve observed, as this will help your provider better understand the situation. The doctor may conduct a physical examination, lab tests, and discuss your teen's emotional and psychological state. Building a Support Team Once you’ve taken the first step to ensure your teen’s immediate medical needs are addressed, it’s time to build a multidisciplinary treatment team . This may include: Therapists : A licensed, specially trained therapist who specializes in eating disorders or adolescent mental health can help your teen address the emotional and psychological root causes of their disorder. Medical doctors : Your teen’s doctor can monitor their physical health during the recovery process, ensuring they are safe while navigating the challenges of nourishing their body. Nutritionists or dietitians : A professional who specializes in eating disorders can create a nutrition plan tailored to your teen’s specific needs and help them rebuild a healthy relationship with food. Psychiatrists : In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address underlying mental health issues contributing to their behavior. Act Quickly and Seek Professional Guidance It’s crucial to act as soon as you recognize signs of an eating disorder in your teen. The longer eating disorders go untreated, the harder they can be to overcome. Recovery from an eating disorder is a complex journey, involving both physical and mental obstacles to tackle. It can be incredibly difficult for both the teen and the family to manage this process at home without professional support. A well coordinated team of medical providers, therapists, and eating disorder specialists is essential in guiding your teen through their recovery. This team can help monitor your teen’s progress, provide emotional support, and ensure that your teen is getting the care they need for both short and long-term recovery. Supporting Your Teen on Their Recovery Journey Eating disorders are serious, but with the right care and support, recovery is possible. If you suspect that your teen may have an eating disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Seek medical advice first, and build a support team of professionals who can work together to provide comprehensive care. Eating disorders are complex, and it’s not something you or your teen should have to face alone. Taking swift action and offering compassionate support will help your teen regain control of their health and their life so that they can thrive through their adolescence and beyond. At Thrive, we offer specialized treatment for anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Our adolescent intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs have not only changed lives, but saved them. If you believe your teen is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for help, we are ready to conduct a complimentary intake assessment today. To learn more about eating disorders, download our free guide "Recovery is Real" filled with practical insights and strategies to help a loved one navigate the journey toward recovery.
By Brianna Villalpando March 12, 2025
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Have you noticed an increase in conflict with friends, family, or colleagues? Are you feeling stuck in patterns of negativity that seem hard to shake? If your mood is affecting how you function at work, school, or in your personal life, it may be time to talk to a therapist. Pay attention to your behaviors; are you withdrawing from activities you usually enjoy? Are you reacting more intensely to situations than usual? If your emotional state is beginning to impact your relationships, interactions, or your ability to move through everyday life, a therapist can help you explore underlying causes and develop tools to improve your social wellness. 2. Am I Isolating Myself to Avoid Conflict? There’s a big difference between being introverted and isolating yourself as a way to avoid conflict. 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Emotions like anger, disgust, fear, anxiety, or sadness are natural, but if they start taking over your thoughts and actions, it can be exhausting and difficult to complete daily tasks. A therapist can help you understand why your emotions are so intense and teach you strategies to regulate them and regain a sense of balance. 4. Have I Experienced Trauma That’s Affecting My Daily Life? Trauma comes in many forms, it could be from a single incident or from ongoing experiences that have affected your sense of safety, connection, or well-being. Sometimes, trauma is tied to experiences in childhood, but it can also be linked to recent events, like accidents, loss, or abuse. If you've experienced trauma and are struggling to perform basic daily tasks or meet your needs, therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Unresolved trauma can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or being stuck in past experiences. A trauma-informed therapist can help you process these experiences, understand their impact on your life, and work toward healing and recovery. 5. Am I Hurting Myself or Others? If your mood or behaviors are causing you to hurt yourself or others, it’s crucial to seek help immediately. Whether it’s through emotional or physical self-harm , or unintentionally inflicting harm on the people around you, this is a serious sign to find support from mental health professionals. A therapist can provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk about what you’re going through and help you work toward healthier ways of coping. If you’re in immediate danger or experiencing thoughts of self harm, it’s essential to reach out for help as soon as possible. There’s no shame in seeking support when you're struggling with harmful thoughts or actions. Why is Professional Mental Health Support Necessary? Although there may be barriers to seeking therapy, reaching out for professional mental health support is worth it to address the emotional and psychological issues that you shouldn’t have to deal with alone. Therapists have the knowledge and tools needed to guide you through your struggles, offering insights and solutions that aren’t available outside of the therapeutic setting. Their expertise promises not only a deeper understanding of your challenges, but the application of practical methods and skills to resolve them in your everyday life. Additionally, trained mental health professionals offer personalized strategies and coping mechanisms tailored to your unique situation and needs. These strategies are informed by evidence-based practices and a therapist’s experience working with and healing emotional and mental struggles. Personalized therapy helps clients receive the most relevant and effective guidance for their personal challenges. Embracing the Journey Toward Mental Wellness Recognizing that you might need support is the first step toward feeling better and getting the most out of life. Therapy isn’t just for when things are at their worst; it’s a proactive way to improve your emotional health, work through challenges, and build skills for resilience. If you relate to any of these situations, it might be time to reach out and explore therapy as an option. It’s okay to need help, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. If you’re unsure whether therapy is right for you, consider talking to a mental health professional to discuss your concerns and explore specialized support options available to you. You deserve to feel your best, and therapy can be a stepping stone to help you reach your goals. Are you in need of support? At Thrive Wellness, we offer personalized therapy and treatment to support you in whatever you're going through, don't be afraid to reach out for help . We also offer a FREE comprehensive guide to wellness in our “How to Thrive” guide . This guide offers practical, easy-to-follow habits that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Start your journey towards a balanced and fulfilling life today with these simple yet transformative steps.
By Sage Tippie February 14, 2025
This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .
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