In a society where everything is changing and evolving rapidly, keeping up with modern health is crucial for the well-being of all people. The month of June is solely dedicated to men’s well-being. Despite being perceived as resilient, men face unique challenges when it comes to prioritizing their health that may require more attention than let on. Men’s Health Awareness Month, can help people recognize “the ways mental illness impacts their lives, educates people about available services, and highlights ways to advocate.” It’s time to break the silence on men’s mental health.
Breaking the Silence
One of the critical issues men face today is the stigma surrounding their mental health. Society paints the expectation that men should be stoic, leading them to emotional distress rather than seeking help or support. There can be many consequences as a result of this stigma. It is important to encourage men to have open conversations about their emotions. Providing them with the help they need to discuss their feelings can empower them to seek help when they need it. The month of June promotes awareness campaigns for men that highlight the importance of taking action and prioritizing their mental health.
Beyond the Muscle
While physical health is often associated with muscle mass, it is beyond just that. Physical health is how well your body system, body parts, and sense function. Although exercise plays a pivotal role in determining physical health, there are many other factors that impact your physical health. Some being your lifestyle choices, genetics, the environment you live in, access to health care, and how educated you are about health.
Exercise not only strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular fitness, but enhances mental well-being by releasing endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that make you feel good. They are often released in response to pain or stress. Encouraging men to find activities that help release these endorphins can make exercise a sustainable part of their life.
The Cornerstone of Health
Having a balanced diet encourages overall health and vitality. However, having a busy lifestyle often leads men to prioritize conveniences over nutrition. Educating men on nutrition can help men make better choices about the foods they are consuming.
Incorporating more whole foods such as fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains will help provide essential nutrients needed to support health. As well as learning to cook meals at home more often rather than going out can also be beneficial.
Finding a Balance
With the fast-paced world we live in, stress is very common for many men. The pressure of work, finances, and overall responsibilities contributes to chronic stress. If not managed properly it can lead to mental health disorders. With the stigma that surrounds men in today's society, it can be hard for them to learn to manage or cope with this stress.
Education and awareness are a few of the ways we can help. Learning ways to manage stress is crucial. Some ways to do so include meditation, breathing exercises, time management, exercise, seeking help/support, and finding time for yourself. Promoting a work-life balance is important to help reduce the amount of stress many men are under. Encouraging wellness programs that support men in achieving a balance between the two can promote a healthier lifestyle.
The Role of Awareness
Ultimately, Men’s Health Awareness Month reminds men of the importance of prioritizing their overall health and well being. Men are significantly less likely than women to seek preventative care. It is important we encourage open dialogue and initiatives towards their health. While we try to break down the barriers, empowering men to take charge of their health is the start to advocating a healthy and fulfilling life.