02/21/2026
At Coffee, Hip Hop & Mental Health, our therapist Dwayne Johnson, LCSW shared powerful insight on the phrase “manning up” — and how it has shaped the emotional experiences of many men.
What does “manning up” really mean? For some, it has meant suppressing emotions, avoiding vulnerability, and carrying pain in silence. While resilience is important, emotional suppression can lead to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming healthy relationships.
Strength is not silence. Strength is self-awareness. Strength is asking for support when needed.
What are your thoughts on the phrase “manning up”? How has it influenced the way men process emotions?
BreakTheStigma HealthyMasculinity