By Dr Nick Foster and Andrew King

See below for link to action plan and top  tips

A myth exists about men being unable to seek answers to issues they face in terms of health and relationships. Moreover, research released by the World Health Organisation suggests that engaging men around health and well-being has positive benefits for the whole family. MensLine Australia receives approximately 60,000 calls a year and many more visits on the www.menslineaus.org.au website – particularly to the tip sheets; private research and anonymous discussion is certainly happening.

However, many men still often associate asking for help as a sign of weakness and vulnerability which means they don’t address their health issues early enough or often enough. “Men tend to be socialised in a way that means they don’t easily seek out help and tend to be concerned that doing so can be a sign of vulnerability. This can lead to reluctance to make contact with support services until they reach a high level of distress,” or the health issue disrupts their everyday activities (Dr. Nicholas Voudouris – Director of Crisis Support Services).

Making it normal for men to take preventative as well as curative steps for their health and well-being is vital. Programs on the ground that specifically focus on supporting men and family relationships are so important, as well as developing services that are targeted to supporting men’s health, such as men’s clinics.

Much has been done to make the language of men’s health more appropriate such as “develop health plans”, “create goals” and “regular maintenance checks”. There is a welcome move away from focussing on what is malfunctioning towards active approaches that develop strength and resilience.

Language is only part of this shift. Recently ads have suggested that men should quit smoking, reduce gambling, modify drinking behaviour, minimise conflict, achieve work-life balance and improve general health because of its impact on their family. Men are more likely to change their behaviour, if it is seen to benefit those they care for, particularly their children. It is then that men are often prepared to move mountains, even if those mountains are themselves. By promoting the value of men’s roles within their family and society, we have a positive reason for men to look after themselves.

To develop strategies around family or relationship issues call MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78.

Dr Nick Foster and Andrew King

Download action plan, top tips here on Men and Mental Wellbeing