Men's Health Month is a time to focus on the importance of taking care of yourself and learning about the health risks and conditions that men face. Throughout June, it's important to take the time to care for your mental and physical health.
Prioritizing men's mental and physical health is vital, but often put off until it becomes too late. Although middle-aged men (35-65 years old) represent only 19% of the United States population, they represent 40% of suicides in the US. This may be linked to many reasons, but one overarching cause is the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help. On average, men receive less behavioral health treatment than women, and because of this, symptoms and coping mechanisms continue to get worse.
Physically, men are susceptible to conditions and diseases that can be otherwise prevented with regular check-ups, better habits, and movement. The percentage of men 18 and older who met the 2018 federal guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity is only 28%, while 40% of men are considered obese.
What Steps Should Men Take?
- Choose a trusted Primary Care Provider and get routine check-ups.
- Limit alcohol and eat a healthy diet – choose fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and foods high in fiber over foods high in saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium.
- Get moving! Even if it's only a quick and easy walk, any movement is better than nothing at all.
- Stop smoking – Quitting smoking and limiting your exposure to secondhand smoke can reduce your risk for heart and lung disease and cancer.
- Manage stress and take active measures to improve mental health, whether it be through meditation, therapy, or physical activity.
Raising awareness for men's health doesn't have to end in June. At PRN, we challenge the men in our communities to be proactive in taking control of their health and wellness for years to come. If you encounter an injury or notice some aches and pains throughout your wellness journey, visit a PRN clinic near you!
https://sprc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SPRC_MiMYReportFinal_0-1.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mens-health.htm