Celebrating Our Men: A Call to Prioritise Wellness and Family

Men's Health Month is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about health issues that uniquely affect men and motivating them to take proactive steps towards better health. It promotes preventative screenings and highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of diseases. In Jamaica, this means focusing on issues like heart disease, diabetes and perhaps the most discussed but often overlooked prostate cancer. 

Many men also struggle with mental health problems but find it difficult talk about them openly. Socioeconomic factors can hinder their access proper healthcare or impede their ability to maintain healthy lifestyles. Unfortunately, many Jamaican men are dying unnecessarily from preventable diseases that could be identified early.

However, the problem isn't just biological; it's cultural. From an early age, many boys are taught that seeking help is a sign of weakness. 'Tough it out' becomes a dangerous mantra that follows them through life. They dismiss aches and pains as "nah nuttin'," and generally subscribe to the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" philosophy – even when the warning signs are evident.  As a result, men are 24% less likely than women to have visited a doctor within the past year. They often hesitate to discuss their symptoms and delay screenings, which ultimately costs lives.

The solution starts with changing how we think and talk about men's health. First, we need to normalize conversations about health among men. Creating environments where discussing physical and mental health concerns is seen as a strength rather than a weakness is essential. Second, we need to emphasize preventative care; regular screenings for prostate cancer, heart disease and diabetes can save lives. Lastly, we need to acknowledge that health is holistic – physical, mental and emotional well-being are interconnected. 

Practical Tips for Men to Improve Their Health

Each man can take ownership of his health journey through education, regular screenings and lifestyle choices. Here are some practical tips to improve their health:

• Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
• Practice stress relief activities like prayer or meditation.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Prioritise mental health by talking openly about feelings.

Make It A Family Affair

Families can play a crucial role in encouraging the men in their lives to prioritize regular check-ups and honest health discussions. With Father's Day just around the corner (June 15), let's celebrate the incredible men in our lives by giving them the gift of health! Here are some suggestions:

• The "Doctor's Appointment + Dinner" Combo: Schedule a check-up for your dad and then immediately follow it up with his favourite meal. 
• Gift of Wellness: Instead of giving another tie, consider a gym membership, a healthy cooking class, or a subscription to a meditation app. 
• Family Fitness Challenge: Organize a family walk, a friendly cricket match, or a swim. Make it fun and competitive, and subtly promote active living. 
• The "Listen, Don't Lecture" Approach: Instead of nagging, simply ask the men in your life how they're really doing. Sometimes, a listening ear is the best medicine. And if they finally open up, resist the urge to say "I told you so!" 
• Lead by Example: Men, this one's for you. Show your sons, nephews and friends that it's okay to prioritize your health. Schedule those check-ups, eat your vegetables, and don't be afraid to talk about what's going on with your body and mind.

As we celebrate Men's Health Month and honour the fathers this June, let’s shift gears from just recognizing the importance of men's health to actively championing it by fostering open conversations, challenging outdated norms and empowering the men around us to take charge of their health.

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