Men's Health Awareness Week

Men's Health Awareness Week occurs from June 9th-June 15th this year. Each year it is internationally observed from the Monday prior to Father's Day through the following Sunday and was designed to encourage men to be proactive about their physical and mental health. Menshealthnetwork.org indicates men on average die six years sooner than women—primarily from heart disease, lung and prostate cancer, injuries, chronic conditions, and suicide. Wearblueformenshealth.com reports men schedule only half as many screening check-ups with their physician as women, which can contribute to their shorter lifespan. Menshealthnetwork.org states men tend to push their own wellness to the back burner to focus on responsibilities such as family and work. It is now being emphasized that "prioritizing our physical health isn’t selfish. It’s the ultimate power move."

Menshealthnetwork.org provides helpful information about how following a healthy lifestyle (proper nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress reduction) can help reduce the development of many serious physical issues. These include cardiovascular problems (heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol), cancer (prostate, lung, testicular, colorectal, melanoma, bladder, and blood cancers), and chronic conditions ( COPD, diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis, viral infections, and sexual health issues). Routine screening exams can also provide earlier detection and treatment if health problems do occur. Menshealthnetwork.org reports anxiety, depression, and substance abuse can have a significant impact on mental health and encourages men to reach out to the 988 Lifeline if they have any thoughts of self-harm. Judgement-free help is available 24/7/365.

Wear Blue Day occurs on the Friday before Father's Day. It is a way to show husbands, fathers, brothers, uncles, partners, friends, co-workers, and sons that their health matters and we support them. The strategies for healthy living—start slow, set realistic goals, be consistent, seek support, and celebrate milestones—help men improve their lifespan and quality of life.

For more information about how to improve health and wellness for the body, mind, and soul, please visit NurtureYourWholeSelf.com. Free educational information is available from reputable sources, and there are also affiliate links to brand name products and services that promote health and wellness. For a limited time, Life Line Screening is offering a free PSA test with the booking of a health screening package. Click here to schedule yours today.