Traditionally, strength is measured by how many weights you can lift. But what does it mean to be a strong man?
True strength is a quiet and unstoppable sense of purpose that drives you forward and defines how you respond to adversity. It is not brute force, but rather an internal strength that builds resilience and keeps you moving forward through the tough times.
True strength requires self-awareness, strong values, and commitment. You can cry and still be strong. You can breakdown and still be strong. You can be vulnerable and still be strong.
Men’s Health Week (June 10-16) is dedicated to kick-starting a change in perceptions and spreading awareness of preventable health problems. It strives to break down stigma and redefine what it means to be a strong man by encouraging more men to prioritise their health.
We’ve put together some areas that with a little extra attention can help you take control of your life and be the best you.
Mental health
Your mental health is one of the most important parts of your overall health and wellbeing. Good mental health sets you up to conquer life’s challenges and enjoy positive and healthy relationships.
Men’s Health Week is working hard to spread awareness and normalise that it can be difficult to manage your mental health. On average:
- 1 in 8 men will experience depression
- 1 in 5 men will experience anxiety
- men are nearly 3 times more likely to die by suicide than women
- men are twice as likely to die because of drug or alcohol abuse.
The hardest step in seeking help is the first one, and Men’s Health Week aims to make this step as approachable as possible.
Many of us aren’t very good at looking after our bodies or minds, and sometimes it can be easier to bottle everything up and throw it in a dark closet. Everyone’s physical and mental health fluctuates during their life – we all have ups and downs, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
Seeking help does not make you weak – it makes you responsible.
Social connection
Loneliness is also a major area of concern for many men. It’s critically important to our wellbeing to find time to talk and catch-up with mates, even if it’s just for a quick coffee.
Having these social connections can be a defining factor when someone is going through a tough time. Many men feel the pressure to be strong for their family and it can be hard to talk about how you feel but staying silent can be even harder in the long-run. Friends and family can help start these conversations and guide you down the road to recovery.
Medical check-ups
Maintaining a healthy body and mind helps you make the most of your life, and one of the best ways to do that is by having regular medical check-ups. Good health begins with prevention, and by integrating regular health screenings into your fitness routine you are setting your body up for success.
Overall, men visit general practitioners significantly less than females, despite generally having poorer health. They represent 94% of all workforce fatalities and on average have a life expectancy almost five years shorter than women.
Small steps can make a big difference in the long run, and regular medical check-ups will help you take control of your life.
Diet and nutrition
Eating healthy helps keep your body strong and your mind sharp. It provides the nutrients your body needs to grow, repair, fight illness, and thrive. Combined with physical exercise, a healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of health complications and diseases.
Diet and nutrition affect more than just your physical health though. Research suggests that healthy diets can play a strong role in preventing and treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
This Men’s Health Week, we’re challenging social norms, environmental factors, upbringings, and negative cultures. We will be sharing a number of articles that shine a light on men’s health, relationships, and perceptions to help spread awareness and redefine what it means to be strong.
It’s time to raise the profile on men’s health issues, and acknowledge that everyone needs support to stay healthy and be their best.