Coping or Numbing? The Difference—and Why It Matters

When men are under emotional strain, they often turn to familiar habits just to get through the day. In Episode 4 of The Visibility Gap, hosted by Dr. Guy Winch, we explore how behaviors like binge eating, overworking, or constant distraction can quietly become ways of numbing mental health challenges—sometimes without realizing it.

This episode looks at the difference between coping and numbing, and how habits meant to relieve stress can actually deepen it over time. We also explore healthier, more effective tools for managing stress in the moment, and how support, connection, and practical coping strategies can help men build real resilience.

We begin with Charles Abouzied, who shares how unhealthy coping mechanisms led to self-sabotage and numbing instead of healing. He’s followed by psychiatrist Dr. Jake Goodman and Professor Carlos Kelly, who examine why these patterns are so common among men—and how to break the cycle.

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