Changing The Face Of Mens Health

Here at WPN. We focus most of our attention on the health of our bodies – encompassing; strength, flexibility and fitness. But there’s aspects of our health we rarely think about, and that’s where Movember comes in. Each year Movember reminds us that we need to focus just as much attention on the aspects of our health we can’t see, like our mental health. We know that being physically active and eating healthily has positive effects on our mood and mental health, but are men in general neglecting their overall health? Men are more reluctant than women to speak openly about their health and their feelings that can lead to feelings of isolation, compounding mental health problems. You may not know this, but suicide is one of the top ten killers of men in Australia.   But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are things you can do as part of Movember AND part of your every day life that can help. Most people are aware of Movember – men shave for the beginning of November and grow moustaches to raise money for men’s health charities. It’s a girlfriends nightmare and a massive show of manliness comparing moustache growth. Check out the Mo Hall of Fame here! But on a wider level we need to do more to make us feel safer to visit the doctor if we have health issues or talk to someone if we are having troubles that are messing with our heads. Here’s 8 tips to help you be a great mate:

• Get him talking. This can be hard. Be persistant but non-confrontational.
• Don’t judge. You’ll make him defensive, which isn’t helpful.
• Try a stealth approach. Ask whether he’s OK. Tell him you’ve been worried about him.
• Be discreet. Don’t try to talk with other mates are around.
• Ask questions. Don’t offer answers.
• Don’t offer advice. He’s probably looking for understanding.
• Keep it serious. It’s tempting to try to make light of the situation to break the tension, but this can risk them feeling like you’re not taking their problem seriously.
• Make sure you’re OK. Sharing someone else’s troubles can be stressful. Be sure you’re fit enough for the job before you get involved.

Of course, you should also donate to your mates growing mo’s – if you’re not participating yourself because these charities are helping to make healthier men – and isn’t that why we train so hard in the first place?