By Erin Hagan
Every day, millions of men throughout the U.S. work hard to manage a wide range of responsibilities. But when it comes to taking care of their own well-being, a lot of men fall down on the job – often due to traditional notions of masculinity.
June is National Men’s Health Month, and it’s the perfect opportunity to encourage men to take proactive steps in improving their health by challenging societal norms and taking preventive measures.
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Exploring Men’s Health Dilemma
It’s well known that detecting health problems early can help make treatment more effective and can lead to better outcomes. However, a survey by the Cleveland Clinic finds that 65% of men tend to wait as long as possible to see their doctor. So, what is keeping men from seeking out the preventive care they need?
Many men fear procedures or the possible outcomes of getting a diagnosis. As a result, they prefer to ignore or deny symptoms rather than confront a health issue. Additionally, stereotypes and societal expectations have convinced many men to believe that seeking medical attention is a sign of weakness. That same Cleveland Clinic survey revealed that 41% of male respondents were taught that men should not complain about health issues.
What Steps Should Men Take?
Although men may feel compelled by society to hide their pain or feelings, staying up-to-date with doctor’s visits and health screenings can be crucial to their quality of life. It’s important for men to consult their healthcare provider to help establish when and how often to get tested.
Common health screenings for men include:
- Heart-Related Screenings. According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol both increase the risk for heart disease, but often have no symptoms – so it is all the more important to get regularly checked.
- Cancer Screenings. A study on gender differences in cancer screenings finds that a majority of men and women believe screenings are effective in detecting cancer, yet a significant proportion of men have never had a test. The most prevalent types of cancer that primarily impact men are prostate, colorectal, lung, and skin cancers. It is crucial for men to know their risk factors and keep up with recommended screenings.
The Stigma of Mental Health
While it’s hard enough for many men to admit they need help for physical ailments, there is an even greater stigma when it comes to mental health. As a result, many men choose to suffer in silence. In fact, less than half of men who experience depression will seek out and receive treatment.
But it’s important for men to realize that they don’t need to struggle alone. There are many resources designed for men that can help them feel supported. These include support groups, therapists who specialize in men’s health, and online resources with screening tools and tips for managing mental health.
Unlocking a Healthier Future
Nobody is invincible, and everyone needs to prioritize their health. But outdated viewpoints and long-held misconceptions are still causing many males to avoid seeking help for medical and psychological issues.
It’s time to challenge cultural expectations and encourage open conversations. Let’s work together to create an environment where men feel comfortable reaching out and receiving the care they need.