Pediatrics? We can help

Your children are one of your most precious treasures, and when they need healthcare, they deserve the very best. We’re proud to take care of your entire family. From birth through adulthood, we’re here for you.

Put your trust in Iredell County’s largest and only nonprofit health system. You’ll be glad you did.

Family Care Center of Mooresville • 704.360.6580

Judith Prairie, MD • FCCofMooresville.com

Iredell Primary Care • 980.435.0406

Anthony Elkins, DO • IredellPrimaryCare.com

Statesville Family Practice • 704.873.3269

Rachel B. DiSanto, MD • StatesvilleFamilyPractice.com

Growing older but not up.

Men ARE expressive and emotive. Contrary to popular belief, men do like to express themselves and share their feelings; they just need to feel comfortable and at ease when they do. Once he knows he can be himself with you and he won’t be judged, he will open up. And be careful not to offer solutions (unless asked) … he, like all of us, just wants to be truly heard.

They are born to problem-solve. This is why they resist asking for directions, help, and prefer not to multi-task … one thing at a time! They like to focus on a specific chore/ problem and fix it. This is why they tend to like to work with their hands and repair things around the house. But don’t give them a to-do list; that actually negates and diminishes their problem-solving mindset.

Men sometimes mask their feelings with anger. Anger has been an emotion that society “allows” men to have. This one is easy to trace back to caveman days—fight or flight! Some may not be aware they even do this, but many have learned it growing up. Behaviors are hard to unlearn but the best thing to do here, again, is to listen without judgment or criticism.

A competitive nature is not all bad. Men have an innate desire to be better than and achieve more. Most are competitive but this can be a good thing—making your partner more determined and successful in life and business. If he’s competitive with you or the kids, just understand it’s part of his manliness and embrace the quality. He wants to be brave and strong for YOU!

Most men admit (proudly and enthusiastically) that they are just big kids. While this can be endearing on many levels, it can cause stress for the more cautious female. They may forget important dates or neglect to do something you asked of them. They love friends, games, and beer so let them have their fun. Men avoid stress and escape life’s pressures by enjoying themselves through games and toys so don’t be too harsh. Positive reinforcement and knowing when to engage with them is best practice. w