International Men’s Day 2024, observed each year on November 19, shines a light on men’s health and celebrates male role models who champion wellbeing. This year’s theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” encourages communities to uplift those who advocate for men’s physical, emotional, and mental health. Men’s Health Champions include family members, friends, colleagues, and healthcare professionals who actively support and encourage men to care for their wellbeing. Through this day, we aim to recognise and promote healthier lifestyles for men everywhere, reinforcing the importance of support networks and positive health choices.
Men’s Health Challenges
Men face unique and often overlooked health challenges.
Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Health
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among men worldwide. Lifestyle factors like high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol contribute significantly. In 2023, the American Heart Association reported that nearly one in three men have some form of cardiovascular disease.
Mental Health and Suicide Rates
Men often face societal pressure to avoid showing vulnerability, which can prevent them from seeking help for mental health struggles. This reluctance is linked to a higher suicide rate in men compared to women. Globally, men account for around 75% of all suicides, according to the World Health Organisation.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a common and serious health issue for men, especially those over 50. Regular screenings can detect it early, but many men avoid or delay these checks. Prostate cancer affects one in eight men over their lifetime in the U.S., with around 248,000 new cases expected in 2024 (American Cancer Society).
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is increasingly prevalent among men due to factors like obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Unmanaged, it can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, and other complications. According to Diabetes UK, approximately 4.3 million men were living with diabetes in 2023, a number expected to rise in coming years.
Substance Abuse
Men are statistically more likely to engage in heavy drinking and substance use than women, often as a coping mechanism. Substance abuse can worsen physical and mental health, increasing the risk of addiction. The CDC reported that men are twice as likely as women to meet the criteria for alcohol dependency.
Addressing these challenges through awareness, support, and regular health checks can help reduce these risks, leading to healthier lives for men.
Stigma Surrounding Men’s Health Support
Despite growing awareness of mental and physical health challenges, men still face significant stigma when it comes to seeking support. Societal expectations often label men as resilient and self-reliant, fostering a belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness. These cultural norms make it difficult for men to express vulnerability, even in private conversations or within family circles. Consequently, many men internalize their struggles, which can lead to worsening mental and physical health over time.
Studies reveal that men are less likely to seek help for mental health concerns, often waiting until symptoms are severe. Research by the American Psychological Association shows that only 30% of men experiencing psychological distress actively seek help, compared to nearly 50% of women. This reluctance stems not only from societal expectations but also from a lack of understanding around available support resources specifically tailored to men’s unique experiences.
Workplaces, often seen as performance-driven environments, can further discourage men from discussing mental health challenges. Many men worry about how they’ll be perceived by colleagues if they open up about their struggles. According to a survey by Mind UK, 44% of male employees feared discrimination or negative judgment from their employer if they disclosed mental health issues, a concern significantly higher than among female employees.
Stigma also extends to physical health. Men are more likely to delay or avoid medical consultations, often due to fear of judgment or embarrassment. This can be particularly true for issues perceived as sensitive, like prostate or testicular health. Men’s Health Forum reports that men are 25% less likely to visit a doctor regularly, which can result in missed opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment.
In response to this stigma, more organisations are implementing initiatives to normalize discussions around men’s health. Campaigns like “Movember” and International Men’s Day 2024 have made substantial strides in changing public perceptions by encouraging men to talk openly about mental health, prostate cancer, and suicide prevention. Additionally, male-focused support groups, both in-person and online, provide safe spaces where men can connect, share experiences, and support one another without fear of judgment.
How Can You be a Male Health Champion?
Being a male health champion means taking proactive steps to promote and prioritise your health, both for yourself and for those around you. It involves breaking down the barriers created by stigma, normalising open conversations about health issues, and encouraging others to seek support when needed. Here are some keyways you can become a champion for male health:
- Lead by Example
One of the most impactful ways to be a male health champion is by leading through action. Prioritise your physical and mental health by scheduling regular check-ups, engaging in physical activity, and adopting a balanced diet. When others see you taking care of yourself, it sets a positive example and encourages them to do the same. Regularly discussing the importance of self-care and health check-ups can help normalise these practices within your social circles, whether at home, work, or among friends.
- Encourage Open Conversations About Mental Health
Breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health is crucial. Start conversations about the emotional challenges men face, particularly around the pressures to conform to societal expectations. Encourage those in your life to speak openly about their feelings, struggles, and mental health. By creating an environment where vulnerability is welcomed, you help shift the narrative that asking for help is a weakness.
- Support Others in Seeking Help
As a male health champion, you can play a vital role in helping others find the resources they need. Whether it’s suggesting a therapist, helping someone make an appointment with a doctor, or pointing out support groups, your support can make a huge difference. Many men avoid seeking help due to fear of judgment or not knowing where to turn.
- Advocate for Workplace Wellness
Workplaces are where men often spend the majority of their time, making them an ideal setting to promote health initiatives. Support or lead wellness programs at your workplace that focus on both physical and mental health. Encourage employers to introduce more flexible work policies, mental health days, or employee assistance programs that address the unique needs of men.
- Raise Awareness Through Community Involvement
Being a male health champion extends beyond personal action—it’s about influencing change on a broader scale. Get involved with community organizations, local health events, or campaigns that promote men’s health. Whether it’s participating in International Men’s Day 2024, organising wellness workshops, or raising funds for male-focused health research, community engagement allows you to contribute to the wider conversation and raise awareness about the importance of men’s health issues.
- Educate Yourself and Others
An informed health champion can advocate for real change. Stay educated about common men’s health issues such as heart disease, mental health challenges, prostate cancer, and substance abuse. Share what you learn with others to help dispel myths, reduce stigma, and encourage healthier lifestyles. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your own health and equips you with the tools to support those around you.
Wellity Training Support
This International Men’s Day 2024, we offer a session around creating change for men’s health.
Men’s Health MOT
We are experiencing a silent men’s health crisis. Globally 3 out of 4 suicides are men, men die 6 years younger than women, and 95% of people who die at work are men. This informative and enlightening session will explore the barriers to men accessing advice for both their mental and physical health, raising awareness of the issues faced by men and how to overcome them.
Objectives:
- Understand the importance of regular health check-ups and preventative care for men.
- Raise awareness about men’s specific health concerns and risk factors.
- Encourage men to prioritise their health and wellbeing.
- Promote a culture where men feel comfortable seeking help and support for their health needs.
Men’s Mental Health Matters: Be an Agent for Change
In this session, we will explore the vital role that men can play in fostering positive mental health, not only for themselves but also for their friends, colleagues, and children. Through enlightening discussions, we will address the prevailing taboos surrounding men’s mental health, encouraging participants to break the silence and become agents for change.
Objectives:
- Learn practical strategies for supporting friends, colleagues, and children, promoting open conversations, and providing a safe space for emotional wellbeing.
- Emphasise the importance of self-care and setting an example as role models, demonstrating healthy coping mechanisms and emotional resilience.
For further information on this session, book a meeting with our team.
