Men’s Health Week is running from 10 to 16 June this year. Started by Men’s Health Forum, it aims to raise awareness of men’s physical and mental health.
This year, the theme of Men’s Health Week is inspired by King Charles and his openness about his enlarged prostate. We are joining Men’s Health Forum in supporting men to talk not only about their prostates, but other aspects of their health.
Looking after your physical health
For many people, not just men, it can be easy to neglect your physical health. However, men are more likely to face poor health outcomes from health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
According to Government research published in December, there are multiple underlying causes of this. These include, but are not limited to:
- Socio-economic factors such as income, education, housing and employment
- Protected characteristics included under the Equality Act 2010
- Behavioural factors such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and physical activity
- Health-seeking behaviours
- Access to healthcare
- Psychological factors
This is why starting a conversation about men’s health is so important. Ensuring that men have access to the educational and healthcare resources that they need is vital for helping to bridge the gender gap in poor health outcomes.
Speaking out also encourages others to do so. Sharing these stories can help other men recognise symptoms that have gone ignored, leading to early diagnosis and potentially better health outcomes in the long term.
If you are facing health issues that you are concerned about, you should arrange an appointment with your doctor. The fear of a scary diagnosis can put many people off addressing their concerns, but as mentioned above, an early diagnosis can often lead to a better prognosis.
Looking after mental health
As well as physical health, Men’s Health Week draws attention to the importance of looking after your mental wellbeing.
Men are disproportionally affected by suicide in the UK. Suicide is the biggest cause of death for men under 50, with around three quarters of deaths by suicide being men each year. This statistic shows just how important mental health awareness is for men and boys in the UK.
The most important thing to do if you are struggling with your mental health is to reach out for support. Whether that is talking to family and friends, your doctor and healthcare professionals, or a helpline such as the Samaritans, anything can be your first step to getting help.
Getting the right support
As care providers, we are more than aware that physical and mental health can also impact each other. Whatever issues you are going through, make sure that you have the right care and support on hand.
Our team are trained to provide complex care support for long-term physical and mental health conditions.
If you or one of your loved ones needs support, reach out to see how we can help.