Men's Health Week 2024: A Call to Action for Better Health and Well-Being
- Carolyn Long
- Jun 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Men's Health Week 2024: A Call to Action for Better Health and Well-Being
Every June, Men’s Health Week shines a spotlight on the unique health challenges faced by men and promotes the importance of proactive healthcare. This week is dedicated to heightening awareness about preventable health issues and encouraging men to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury. In 2024, Men’s Health Week runs from June 10th to June 16th, culminating on Father’s Day, making it a perfect time to reflect on and prioritise men's health.
Why is Men's Health Week important?
The shocking statistics tell us why Men’s Health Week is so important:
One man in five dies before the age of 65.
115 people die by suicide in the UK every week – with 75% of those deaths being male (ONS)
More than 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year in the UK on average – that's 144 men every day. (Prostate Cancer UK)
1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime (Prostate Cancer UK)
Only 36% of all NHS referrals for psychological therapies are for men. Men are less likely to seek help for their mental health. (Mental Health UK)
Key Focus Areas
Preventive Health: Men’s Health Week emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and screenings. Men are less likely than women to visit the doctor for routine exams and preventive care. Encouraging men to undergo regular health screenings for conditions such as hypertension, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and certain cancers can lead to early detection and more effective treatment.
Mental Health: Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being. Men are often reluctant to seek help for mental health issues due to societal stigmas and gender stereotypes. This week serves as a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. Discussions on depression, anxiety, and suicide prevention are vital, as men are more likely to die by suicide than women.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Encouraging a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are foundational to good health. Men’s Health Week promotes awareness about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, including the reduction of risk factors for chronic diseases like heart disease and stroke.
Substance Abuse and Addictive Behaviours: Addressing issues related to alcohol, tobacco, and drug use is crucial. Education on the risks and providing resources for those seeking help can lead to healthier outcomes.
Workplace Health: Since many men spend a significant portion of their time at work, workplace wellness programmes play a key role. Employers are encouraged to create a healthy work environment, offering initiatives like fitness challenges, stress management workshops, and health screenings.
Breaking the Stereotypes
One of the underlying themes of Men’s Health Week is breaking the stereotypes that prevent men from seeking help. The “tough guy” image can be detrimental, leading to the neglect of health issues until they become severe. This week serves as a platform to challenge these norms, promoting the idea that sharing stories and taking care of your health is a sign of strength, not weakness.
How to Get Involved
Educational Events: Attend or organise events such as health fairs, seminars, and webinars that provide valuable information on men’s health topics.
Social Media Campaigns: Participate in online campaigns using hashtags like #MensHealthWeek to spread awareness and share informative content.
Community Activities: Engage in community activities like fun runs, sports tournaments, or fitness classes that promote physical activity and camaraderie.
Personal Commitment: On a personal level, men can use this week as a starting point to schedule their annual check-up, adopt a new fitness routine, or seek help for any mental health concerns.
Men’s Health Week is more than just a calendar event; it’s a call to action for men to take control of their health. By raising awareness, providing education, and promoting healthy lifestyles, we can make significant strides in improving the health and well-being of men everywhere. Let’s use this week as an opportunity to support the men in our lives and encourage them to prioritise their health, not just during Men’s Health Week, but every day of the year.
Resources
Prostate Cancer UK's top priority is funding research to stop prostate cancer killing men. https://prostatecanceruk.org/
The Men's Health Forum is a charity supporting men's health in England, Wales and Scotland. https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/
Support and advice for men experiencing the menopause. https://www.herstasis.com/male-menopause-manopause/
Mates in Mind is a charity raising awareness and addressing the stigma of poor mental health. https://www.matesinmind.org/
Andy’s Man club is a men’s suicide prevent charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the UK and online. https://andysmanclub.co.uk/
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