Men’s health month has been recognized every June for over 30 years. Men’s health month brings awareness to the unique health challenges men face. During men’s health month, men are encouraged to take charge of their health both mentally and physically by seeking the support they need and adopting positive habits.
Men are less likely to prioritize their health than women. This goes for mental and physical health.
Men’s Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health and taking care of the mind is critical to living a fulfilling life. Many men are hesitant talking about their feelings because society has expected men to be tough, resilient, and emotionally strong. The truth is that these expectations contribute to lower mental wellbeing in men by making it difficult for men to discuss their feelings in meaningful and constructive ways with their peers.
Mental health issues in men like anxiety, depression, and unmanaged stress are common. Although the number of men who need mental health care is significantly higher than the number of those who seek it.
Poor mental health can impact your relationships and career if left untreated and can lead towards substance abuse, isolation, and even suicide.
Did You Know?
Men are more likely to develop skin cancer on their lips and scalp? Men are less likely to wear sunscreen than women are, and this can lead to more instances of skin cancer. Apply and reapply sunscreen when outside, use lip balm with spf, and see a dermatologist if you notice unexpected changes on your skin.
Men’s Physical Health
Men are less likely to visit a doctor regularly or follow up on important preventative health screenings. There are many health risks men face especially as they age like heart disease, prostate cancer, skin cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
These conditions can be deadly if ignored or missed but can be managed and treated if caught early. Men should consider talking to their doctors regularly about their health concerns and stay on top of preventative health screenings.
Men Should Feel Good Inside and Out
- Acknowledge and feel your feelings instead of ignoring or avoiding them.
- Talk to a trusted friend or loved one about your mental health.
- Manage your stress through self-care with sleep hygiene, a balanced diet, exercise, spending time with friends, and regular checkups with your primary care provider.
- Seek professional help if your feelings of anxiety, depression, or stress feel like too much for you to handle.
- Stay Hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. If you weigh 180 pounds, you should drink about 90 ounces of water a day. Drink more if you are active or it’s hot outside.
- Get active. A sedentary lifestyle is a common contributor to a variety of health problems. Exercise alone or in a group.
- Use sunscreen.
- Make new healthy habits that help you feel good.
Taking Charge
Men’s health month is the perfect time to start prioritizing your health. Whether it is talking to a mental health professional, scheduling a routine checkup, regular exercise, or creating healthy eating habits. Remember, good health is not just about treating an illness, it’s about preventing it. This men’s health month, take charge of your health and make the decision to live your best life .
