Label Volunteer Laura Gray Núñez reflects on the importance of November being Men’s Health Awareness Month.
November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, and highlights the range of issues men face, whether it be physical or mental struggles. This month is vital to shed light on the concerns of men within society who have a tendency to be reluctant in coming forward for help and support.
In terms of physical disease, prostate cancer and testicular cancer only affect men, therefore it is important to know what to look for when addressing a potential issue, especially with men being less likely to visit their GP or pharmacist. Approximately 40,000 more men have been tested for prostate cancer in the UK compared to last year, meaning a total of 243,052 men have gone to be checked. This is a testament to a wider conversation and an increasing accessibility of support that in turn leads to more men making an active attempt to avoid illness.
Education over potential symptoms to be aware of is becoming more important than ever before. With schools being more aware of these issues and informing young people of risks and encouraging a more vocal approach, the numbers of both preventable disease and suicide rates will only decrease, so a proactive and well-informed approach is essential to a change occurring in men’s physical health.
There is also an ever-growing concern for men’s mental health in society, but why do men not reach out for help? In 2019, almost 78% of suicides were recorded to be male suicides. This shocking statistic is, unfortunately, no coincidence, as society is guilty of instilling the concept that being masculine and to ask for help or talking about your feelings are two extremely conflicting behaviours. Worldwide, around 40% of men do not speak about their mental health, which is particularly damaging. It is well known that a problem shared is truly a problem halved, so the mindset that men have no other option must be changed.
The expectation to be the “breadwinners” is a threat to all men in modern society as it is a cause of extreme psychological pressure. A sole responsibility provide can push men who are already struggling with their mental health into a downward spiral. Being unable to escape from the constant cycle of sadness and stress is what causes the high suicide rates in men, therefore our generation must be the change that eradicates the belief that men cannot speak about their feelings.
With growing methods of treatment like therapy and medication being a more viable option, we are becoming more effective in addressing the issues faced, and this can only continue with further mental health facilities that appeal to the needs of men.
Remember to keep checking up on your friends and family members regularly, having a support network to go to in times of difficulty, or even just for a chat, truly makes a difference.
For Loughborough Mental Health Services, please click here.
Edited By: Zoe Powell (News and Politics Editor)
Design By: Sarim Mangi (Head of Design)
