Men’s health – are you proactive or reactive?

Words SAMANTHA ASHLEY

For years men have been forced by society to fit into the stereotypical ‘man box’. They have been taught there are certain things real men must be: economically and physically strong, tough, brave, family providers. And from a young age, told to ‘man up’, ‘suck it up’ or stop acting ‘like a girl’ whenever they display any kind of emotion. They are told there are certain things men should not be, like kind, nurturing and tender. It is this restrictive view society offers of what it means to be a man that causes confusion and depression, increasing stress levels, changes in brain chemistry and hormonal imbalances (yes these don’t just happen to women).

In our modern society, we are slowly but surely becoming more in tune and sensitive to men’s emotional needs, which also leads into how men view their mental and physical health.

As men’s bodies change over the years, it is important for them to seek out and obtain new knowledge and solutions towards health and wellness; to be in tune with their bodies. This proactive view will help men achieve optimal health, no matter what stage of life they are in, instead of the archaic stereotypical reactive attitude to physical and mental health that has been so prevalent in men in society previously.

Prevention and early detection of underlying health conditions when it pertains to men’s health are often neglected compared to the strategies women put in place for self-care and health and wellness responsibilities. Compared to women, men are quite often more likely to lead less healthy lifestyles – including smoking, drinking alcohol, eating poorly and lack of exercise – and less likely to seek medical, mental and emotional health solutions or support. Additionally, men are more likely to put off routine medical check-ups.

Good men’s health begins with putting in place strategies to become well and stay well. Try to focus on finding a life balance that works for you. You can start creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle by reducing and managing your stress levels, cutting back on alcohol and drugs, making healthier food choices, drinking more water, exercising regularly and recognising the signs and symptoms of anxiety, depression and suicide and taking action early to address these issues. It’s also important to recognise that these changes take time, and any setbacks are normal. Don’t give up when things don’t go to plan.

Most importantly, remember men and women are entitled to feel things equally. Try to get in touch with and accept how you feel. Talk to other men, family and friends and embrace all that it is to be a man, not just the things society tells men they should be.

www.greenvalleybowentherapy.com.au