June is Men’s Health Month. Many people are often spreading awareness about mental health issues in general, but is anyone actually supporting the men? We all feel the same emotions and choose to deal with them differently. We also often hear the phrase, “Feel your feelings” and its importance. However, our society doesn’t even support the small number of men who are emotional. We make them feel worse about it. We teach boys that being vulnerable and in touch with their emotions is a weakness and that they must “man up.” We teach them that their feelings do not matter and that only girls should be emotional, so they grow up to be men who struggle with mental health because of everything they have bottled up. How can men “feel their feelings” when they have always been taught to do the opposite? And how can help make this change?
First, did you know:
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On average, men die five years younger than women
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African American and Native American men have the shortest life expectancy and die at higher rates from 9 of the top 10 causes of death
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Men account for over 90% of workplace fatalities, are far less likely than women to have health insurance, and are half as likely to see a doctor for preventive care
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Over 65,000 more men than women have died from COVID-19
Next, the Men’s Shed Association is an innovative organization that began in Australia, aiming to help men maintain healthy minds and bodies. It has even spread to other countries. They understand the importance of community and how men being supported and surrounded by loved ones will help motivate them do better for themselves.
In Conclusion, do not wait on Men’s Health Month to finally start educating yourself on these issues. Women also have a great impact on the changes that could be made. They can be there for men when they need someone to lean on. These men are sons, brothers, and fathers. If they cannot help themselves and do not have a support system, how will they be able to set a good example for their loved ones? They won’t even be emotionally available in romantic relationships, in friendships, or in fatherhood. The cycle must end.