November marks Men’s Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the health issues men face and promoting the importance of early detection, prevention, and treatment.
This month-long event focuses on promoting physical and mental well-being among men, addressing issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health challenges, and suicide prevention.
Men have higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and mental health challenges, and tend to ignore or “tough out” their symptoms more than women do.
It’s important for men to remember that taking care of their own health is just as important as taking care of others. Whether it’s mental health check-ins or getting those yearly screenings, a little effort now can make a huge difference.
Key health areas men should check out this month:
- Prostate cancer: This one’s common, especially if you’re over 50. A quick test can put your mind at ease – or help catch it early when it’s most treatable.
- Mental health: It’s time to end the stigma. Anxiety, depression, and stress affect men at high rates, and often men can be hesitant to seek support. A mental health check-in can change everything – don’t wait.
- Heart health: Simple steps like cutting back on fried foods, getting more exercise, and managing stress can go a long way.
- Testicular cancer: This one’s most common in younger men, ages 15–35. It’s a quick self-check that you can do in the shower.
Small steps to get started:
- Book an appointment: If you can’t remember your last check-up, now’s the time. Whether it’s a dental check up, or a visit to the optician – head to our services page to help you get started.
- Talk it out: If you’re struggling with stress or feeling low, talk to someone – friend, family, or a therapist. Visit our Get To Know Where To Go page to find local and national mental health support. You can also visit Shining a Light on Suicide for more advice and support.
- Make time for fitness: Even 30 minutes of walking, lifting weights, or playing sports with friends can boost both physical and mental health. Visit our Keep Well page to find ways you can look after your own physical and mental wellbeing.
Movember: grow a Moustache, raise awareness!
Movember is a fun way to support the cause – grow a moustache to get conversations going.
The Movember Foundation has raised millions to tackle prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health, so when someone asks about your ‘stache, let them know you’re raising awareness for men’s health.
Look out for each other
Men’s Health Awareness Month is also a reminder to look out for our friends, brothers, dads and sons. Sometimes, a simple conversation can be the push someone needs to get help.
Take charge this November. You’re not just doing it for yourself – you’re doing it for the people who need you to be around for a long, healthy life.
