Men’s Health Month is an annual event that focuses on raising awareness about the health issues affecting men and encouraging them to take charge of themselves and their well-being. This guide will discuss the significance of Men’s Health Month, the essential aspects of men’s health, and the various small changes and healthy habits and practices men should adopt and implement to maintain their best health.
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The Origins of Men’s Health Month and Men’s Health Week
Men’s Health Month is observed every June, with its origins dating back to a special week-long campaign called National Men’s Health Week. Established in 1994, this initiative was aimed at educating men, boys, and their families about the importance of maintaining a positive attitude towards health and adopting good health practices that can have a preventative effect. Today, Men’s Health Week has grown into an international event and is observed globally as International Men’s Health Week, starting on the Monday before Father’s Day in June and ending on Father’s Day itself.
The primary goals of Men’s Health Month and Men’s Health Week are to raise awareness about preventable health problems affecting men of all ages, encourage healthier lifestyle choices, and promote early detection and treatment of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and depression.
Three Pillars of Men’s Health: Physical, Mental, and Social Connection
At every stage of life, us men, should consider three equally essential aspects of our health: physical health, mental health, and social connection. These three pillars work together to contribute to our overall health and well-being and it is crucial for us to address each area to be and feel healthy.
Physical Health
Men, in general, are less likely to seek preventive care services and when asked, we are always “fine” or “ok”. Not to mention how good we are at not getting help when we get injured. Go to the doctor! have a primary care provider. It is important that you trust and feel comfortable with your doctor, because they are someone who know and can keep track of your health history, and therefor should be able to recommend the most age- and risk-appropriate health screenings.
Health Screenings According to Our Age
As I have stated many times before, I am not a health professional, however I can tell you that health screenings are essential for detecting potential health issues before they become severe. According to your age, the typical screenings should go something like this:
- Young Men (18-39): Physical exams, metabolic screenings, vaccines, STI screenings, assessment of risky behaviors, and family planning discussions.
- Adult Men over 40: Physical exams, metabolic screenings, vaccines, STI screenings, cardiovascular screenings, cancer screenings, and eye exams.
- Adult Men over 65: Physical exams, metabolic screenings, vaccines, STI screenings, cardiovascular screenings, cancer screenings, osteoporosis screenings, and eye exams.
Mental Health
Mental health is a CRUCIAL determinant of overall health and quality of life at any age. Men are more likely to suffer from “deaths of despair,” these include alcoholism, overdose, and suicide, and are less likely to seek mental health services or even help with family and friends. We must learn to recognize the symptoms of depression and anxiety to know when to seek help, this can significantly improve the outcomes of our mental health issues.
Organizations like HeadsUpGuys, the National Black Men’s Health Network, Don’t Change Much, and the Movember Foundation provide useful tips for self-care and online self-assessment tools to help recognize when it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.
Social Connection
The quality of our social connections and relationships are essential for our overall health and well-being. Research shows that individuals who experience loneliness and social isolation are at increased risk of heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, and anxiety. Maintaining healthy social connections can promote better physical and mental health, reduce stress, and enhance immune system function.
There are simple steps we can take, like answering phone calls and sharing meals with friends, spending quality time with family, or volunteering in our community to foster and enjoy social connectedness. Volunteering in the community is something I do, and enjoy very much, I coach a local football a team and it keeps me very engaged and active in the community.
( If you want to know more about coaching read this. )
Charting the Course to Improved Health during Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Month is an excellent opportunity for us to evaluate our health and create a roadmap to achieve our health and wellness goals. By keeping up with recommended health screenings, listening to our bodies, prioritizing mental health, and fostering social connections, we can significantly improve our overall well-being.
Remember, your health is not just about you but also about the people who care for and depend on you. So, take charge of your health during Men’s Health Month and beyond.
