Men's Health Week 2023
#Men'sHealthWeek
This year, Men’s Health Week takes place 12th -18th June. The aim of this week is to provide men and boys with as much information as possible about physical and mental health services and treatment so that they can live healthy lives and get help if they need it.
Did you know? Just over three out of four suicides (76%) are by men. This is the biggest cause of death for men under 35. Additionally, 12.5% of men in the UK are suffering from a common mental health disorder, like stress, anxiety and depression.
Men’s Health and the Internet
This week, we’re asking - what impact has technology and the internet had on men’s health? You might be able to access all the information in the world on the smartphone in your pocket, but what are the drawbacks?
Having a device that is always to hand means it’s designed to keep you using it. Here, there is a serious risk of addiction. An addiction to your phone may not sound like much, but what if we could spend more time and attention on more meaningful things? A phone addiction could even affect your work, relationships and mental health.
Men’s Health Forum is asking men to take a screen break as a contribution to the CAN DO challenge. You can find out more about it here.
How Do I Get Involved?
Men and Mental Health
Although physical health is important, we must also be conscious of mental health conditions. Taking a break from your phone will contribute positively to your overall mental health so that more of your time can be spent on things that are important to you, like family, relationships and careers.
What Can Be Done in the Workplace?
- Employers should open up a discussion about men and mental health and the impact of technology and the online world with staff as well as students. This will create an open and honest environment where employees can share their thoughts and ask for help if needed.
- Employers can signpost and navigate staff to relevant help like a GP, occupational health scheme or counselling. This information should be easy to access and publicised regularly.
- Incorporate action plans and introduce reasonable adjustments, like flexible working hours or mentoring.
- Encourage staff and students to put their phones away during the day.
- Educate students about the dangers of internet use, pornography and online gambling as part of your RSHE (relationships, sex and health education) curriculum.