International Men’s Health Week
By: Kaylee Powell
From June 10th to June 16th the world celebrates International Men’s Health Week (IMHW). This week-long tradition began in 2002 in Austria after six leading men’s health organizations came together to celebrate this week annually. Menshealthmonth.org states “The goal is to increase awareness of male health issues on a global level and to encourage inter- and intra-national institutions to develop health policies and services that meet the specific needs of men, boys, and their families.”
Physical and Mental health
Statistics show that men are less likely to seek medical attention, which leads to later diagnoses and more detrimental conditions. By spotlighting men’s health, the goal is to get them to seek help before their health worsens. One main target of IMHW is early detection of prostate cancer, as it is the leading cancer diagnosis in men. Men over the age of 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer are encouraged to get regular screenings. However, that age is beginning to lower as we see a rise in prostate cancer in younger men.
Men’s health isn’t just physical, it’s also mental. According to the CDC, men are more prone to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, however, are less likely to speak up because of the stigmas surrounding mental health in men. IMHW also puts a focus on finding resources for mental health as well.
Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: For a 24/7 free hotline Call 988 for confidential support.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: Provides referrals, information, and support
Call 1.800.950.NAMI (6264) or text NAMI to 741741
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: provides 24/7 referrals and individuals for those struggling with mental and/or substance use disorders
Call 1.800.662. HELP (4357)
Events and Self-care
IMHW serves as an encouragement for people to become more involved in the physical and mental health of men. One way to show support during this week is to wear blue the Friday before Father’s Day, another is by wearing blue ribbons. Both show support and awareness about prostate cancer. Menshealthmonth.org lists health fairs, educational seminars, and fitness activities throughout the week as well.
Outside of this one week, there are many ways men can proactively take care of themselves throughout the year, specifically self-care. Self-care comes in many forms, but the main goal is to provide relaxation for the body and the brain. The main ways to incorporate self-care include; eating healthily, drinking enough water, exercising, and sleeping regularly, but this list can be so much more. Geoffrey Whittaker, the writer of “Self-Care Tips for Mental Health”suggests a few ideas for self-care:
Meditation, journaling, or listening to music: An activity that allows your brain to rest is a great way to relax your brain.
Creating a Positive Mindset: While it can be easy to focus on the negatives, this constant mindset can lead to further feelings of stress and hopelessness. Taking time to point out the positives reduces stress and anxiety.
Practice Healthy Relationships: Maintaining healthy connections with friends and family is another way to keep up with self-care, especially if you feel overwhelmed and need someone to reach out to, keeping yourself busy with friends is a great solution. But, remember these friendships go both ways and it’s important to be there for your friends as well.
Getting Help: A large part of mental health and self-care is knowing when to reach out. If possible, a good way to get out your feelings is by going to a therapist who can help you come up with more concrete ideas for self-care.
Overall, International Men’s Health Week is an initiative focused on bringing awareness to men's health and well-being. IMHW aims to provide healthier outcomes for men by encouraging preventative care, mental health, and healthy lifestyle choices. Along with bringing awareness to prostate cancer.
Sources:
“Men’s Health Month: Celebrated Every June.” Mens Health Month, urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__menshealthmonth.org_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=1y2GEDkvwzBMLZ7tZ_A0oXWFZGrtriv_UWRzap4VPRIY1yIk9s2go_0a2ugAPH5Z&m=5bjQZ9vL_QcQdV4iVfzuLtrhgruxCnz_UAodGHU3ds5Mi7q2BPBjfGwS219gS_wy&s=aq88Wn4AZXujoP3vFzij9Mg3YoXV0Wb7FmOKYR9ASn0&e=. Accessed 5 June 2024.
Whittaker, Geoffrey. “Self-Care Tips for Mental Health.” Hims, 20 Jan. 2022, www.hims.com/blog/self-care-tips-for-mental-health.