For many men, emotional intimacy is one of life’s most confusing and elusive experiences. We crave deep connection—whether with a spouse, partner, a child, a brother, or a friend—but somewhere along the way, we learn to guard our emotions, avoid vulnerability, and numb discomfort. For those struggling with addiction, substances can become a stand-in for connection: a way to feel something—or nothing—without the risk of being seen.
