Research shows that men are less inclined than women to take an active role in maintaining their health, and to seek professional support for health issues.
So this International Men’s Health Week, we’re shining a light on men’s health!
There is an abundance of internal and environmental factors which determine health and wellbeing.
But we’ve taken a look at three specific areas which impact men’s health, and ways for improving health and wellbeing for men.
Men’s health & employment
Employment probably isn’t something that comes to mind when discussing health, but employment plays a significant role in mental health and wellbeing.
Not only does employment provide income and stability, but it is closely linked with self-worth and self-esteem – and research shows this is particularly relevant for men.
While societal notions on gender and the role of male figures in the family are changing, it’s common for men to link self-esteem with the role of breadwinner.
This means that unemployment or financial strain can have a larger impact on both self-esteem and overall mental health, with men feeling increased guilt or shame when these challenges occur.
Finding training, ongoing employment and volunteer opportunities for men can help improve self-esteem and mental wellbeing.
But we all have a part to play in changing societal notions on the role of gender in the household, and we can do this by challenging notions of gender inequality in our daily lives and conversations.
Physical health
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of premature death in men¹.
We all know that a healthy diet and physical activity can help maintain heart health, but events like International Men’s Health Week are always a useful reminder!
Reducing risk factors for heart disease is also important for heart health (with risk factors being smoking, alcohol consumption, high blood pressure, obesity, and high blood cholesterol²).
Finding ways to improve physical health, even simple actions such as walking more or implementing healthy actions into your daily routine, can have a significant impact on overall wellbeing.
Physical health is also important for mental wellbeing, as both are interconnected!
Anxiety, depression & suicide
- One in five men will experience anxiety at some stage in their life¹.
- One out of every eight men will experience depression in their life¹.
- Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women³.
Research shows that men are less likely to seek support for mental health and wellbeing issues, and so raising awareness around mental health is so important.
Make sure to check in on your mates and loved ones, or confide in a friend if you’re going through a tough time.
Taking actions to solve or mitigate issues that are impacting mental health has also been shown to improve mental wellbeing in men.
If you’re experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, we always recommend seeking help from a mental health professional, your local GP, or even a health and wellbeing representative at work.
There’s always someone who can help – but the first step (and often the most difficult one) is to reach out.
Some men find that counselling or talking therapies aren’t right for them, and that’s okay. Getting active, finding enjoyment in your daily life, and spending more time with friends and family are some ways which can also improve mental wellbeing.
To learn more about men and suicide, read our article here.
To speak with a counsellor or learn more about counselling support at CatholicCare Victoria, visit our webpage.
We offer counselling in 13 offices across Victoria, as well as outreach support in rural Gippsland communities.
Sources:
Liz Gellel | Marketing Coordinator – Digital Lead