While many men are great at looking after others, they’re often slower to seek help for themselves. In fact, around two-thirds of Australian men delay seeing a doctor when something doesn’t feel right, according to Healthy Male. But early action can make a difference, especially when it comes to serious health problems such as cancer.
Men’s Health Week is an annual event dedicated to recognising the vital role that health and wellbeing play in the lives of boys and men. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting men’s health and creating communities where men and boys can thrive. This year’s theme, See Your GP, encourages men to take a proactive step by booking a check-up, even if they feel fine.
Building a strong relationship with a GP you trust is one of the best things you can do for your health. You’ll feel more comfortable discussing any concerns you have, and they will become familiar with your personal and family medical history. This will help them identify issues quickly, screen for any risk factors, and offer advice tailored to you and your lifestyle. They’ll also have a record of your current medications and any allergies, which is important to prevent interactions.
Picking up the phone and making an appointment with your GP is a small step that can lead to big changes. If you’re not sure where to start, the Healthy Male Find a Health Service tool can help you locate a GP that suits your needs, including bulk-billing and after-hours options.
A man sitting at the end of a bed, deep in solemn thought.
Of course, health is more than just physical – it’s about mental and emotional wellbeing too. If you’re interested in working with a psychologist or attending a group program, ask your doctor if you qualify for a mental health treatment plan. You may be eligible for up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions, with some of the cost subsidised by Medicare.
Men’s health impacts us all, whether you are a man, work with men, or have male loved ones. So why not spark up a conversation and support the men in your life to take charge of their health today?
For more information on men’s health services check out the following links:
- Healthy Male for useful websites and support services
- Lifeline for anyone having a personal crisis, call 13 11 14 or chat online
- MensLine Australia is an online counselling and forum for men, call 1300 78 99 78
- Dads In Distress is a peer support for separated dads, call 1300 853 437
- Head to Health is for advice and to get connected to local mental health services, call 1800 595 212.
- SANE Australia is for people living with a mental illness, call 1800 187 263 or chat online.
- Beyond Blue has health resources specifically designed for men, call 1300 22 4636
- MoodGYM is a free online cognitive behaviour therapy program
- Qlife provides a counselling and referral service for LGBTIQA+ people
- Ask Izzy is a website/app that can be used to locate nearby crisis services. It connects people in need with housing, a meal, money help, health and wellbeing services, family violence support, counselling and more.
