Page 20 - The Final Exam Book - NO GRID 25:03:24

Craig
Craig's understanding of masculinity underwent a profound shift when he embraced fatherhood, challenging the conventional expectations he had grown up with.
Hailing from a rural town in New South Wales, Craig was raised by his Filipino mother and Australian father, a horse trainer, in a traditional environment that emphasised stoicism and suppressed vulnerability. Despite these stringent standards, Craig held his father in high regard, recognising the valuable lessons he had imparted on love and family, while acknowledging the limitations of his upbringing.
The pressure to conform to societal ideals of masculinity intensi"ed during Craig's high school years, leaving him feeling out of place and unable to meet the stereotypical expectations of manhood. Following high school, Craig grappled with mental health concerns, experiencing a relentless cycle of overthinking, self-criticism, and chronic stress, all while feeling unable to con"de in anyone about his struggles.
Tragedy struck when Craig's father passed away, and he faced a series of personal setbacks, including eviction, relationship turmoil, and "nancial strain. Despite these challenges, Craig internalised the belief that he should handle his burdens alone, adhering to the unattainable standards of masculinity he had internalised.
However, the birth of his son marked a turning point for Craig. While initially excited about impending fatherhood, he found himself succumbing to the pressure of becoming the "impossible man," feeling compelled to adopt a more serious and professional demeanour. This shift in behaviour strained his relationship with his wife and left him feeling disconnected from his authentic self.
As the demands of work intensi"ed, Craig's mental and physical health deteriorated, culminating in a debilitating panic attack that prompted him to seek professional help. Opening up to his GP about his struggles, Craig was diagnosed with anxiety and depression, which led to a newfound commitment to healing and self-care. By scaling back his work commitments, addressing his sleep and ca!eine intake, and embracing Brazilian jiu jitsu as a therapeutic outlet, Craig embarked on a journey of recovery and self-discovery.
Today, Craig is mindful of the expectations he places on his son, prioritising kindness, and emotional intelligence over traditional notions of strength and stoicism. He has liberated himself from the constraints of the "impossible man," setting his own standards and embracing a more authentic and compassionate approach to masculinity.
“Pressure to conform...suppressed vulnerability...out of place”