By: Sara Skoda
As part of our continued effort towards health and wellness, and as we close on November, we are focusing on men’s health and especially men’s mental health. This month, I thought I would share a bit from my perspective as a licensed mental health clinician and psychotherapist.
Men’s health has long been a topic that is underemphasized, with many men tending to ignore the importance of both their physical and mental well-being. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of how crucial mental health is for men, especially when considering the impact of stress on both body and mind. Movember, an annual campaign held each November, has become a powerful platform to encourage men to pay attention to their health, particularly mental health, and seek regular check-ups.
Stress is an inevitable part of modern life, but when it becomes chronic, it can have a significant negative effect on men’s physical and mental health. Men often face pressure from various areas of life, including work, relationships, and financial responsibilities, which can lead to heightened stress levels. When stress is left unchecked, it can lead to a host of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, weight gain or loss, and weakened immune function.
On the mental health side, stress can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and anger. Men are often socialized to suppress their emotions and deal with challenges on their own, which can make it difficult to seek help or even recognize when they are struggling. This “silent suffering” can lead to isolation, and worsening mental health.
A crucial part of maintaining good health is staying on top of regular check-ups. However, many men tend to avoid doctor visits, often putting them off until they experience a serious health problem. Unfortunately, this delay in seeking medical advice can result in untreated conditions and missed opportunities for early intervention.
Routine check-ups can catch health issues early, whether they are physical, like hypertension or high cholesterol, or mental health-related, such as signs of depression or anxiety. Regular visits to the doctor can help men better understand their health status and encourage them to take action toward making improvements. In particular, a doctor’s office is an ideal place to discuss the mental and emotional toll stress can have, as professionals can provide guidance on managing stress and offer referrals to mental health specialists if needed.
Movember, the annual campaign focused on men’s health, has proven to be an essential tool in raising awareness about critical health issues, particularly those related to prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. Movember encourages men to grow a mustache throughout November to spark conversations and remind men to prioritize their well-being.
The campaign has had a positive impact on challenging the stigma surrounding mental health in men. It serves as a reminder that men need to take time for self-care, address stress, and seek help when they need it. During Movember, men are encouraged to visit their doctors, talk about their emotional health, and take proactive steps to improve their overall well-being. It also serves as an opportunity for men to come together as a community, supporting one another in addressing health issues.
Movember has helped bring men’s health into the spotlight, particularly with regard to mental wellness. The campaign reminds men that their mental and physical health should not be neglected and that taking action today can improve their lives in the long term. By addressing stress, seeking regular check-ups, and being open to discussing mental health, men can ensure they are not only living longer but also living healthier, more fulfilling lives. As men, it’s time to shift the narrative, embrace self-care, and break down the barriers that prevent seeking help. Movember serves as a crucial reminder: your health is worth the investment.
Photo: Pexels
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