My step brother’s (28M) dad (65M) just received a diagnosis that will inhibit his life but not end it. My step-brother wants to open a conversation with him about how he is doing and how to support him, because his dad’s girlfriend has expressed that he has been putting on a front to his family but is extremely depressed and miserable when he comes home. The dad prioritizes the “traditional” values of being manly and not expressing emotions, so he has never been vulnerable with my step brother who obviously cares about him deeply. The dad may also have to step down from his career soon (or at least cut back) and that was clearly his passion; his girlfriend will have to support him more, and he’s expressed shame in that. My step brother is nervous to bring up therapy or even open up a conversation because he feels like it’ll make his dad shut down even more or become offended. How do you recommend approaching a man and situation like this? How do you make them feel comfortable and supported while going through something so difficult? submitted by /u/Consistent_Rule5486
Originally posted by u/Consistent_Rule5486 on r/AskMen
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