Help break down the stigma this Men’s Health Week

Getting yourself checked if something doesn’t feel right, talking about your mental health – all things that shouldn’t be frowned upon.

This Men’s Health Week, help break down the stigma and have that conversation about your health. Men are less likely to seek mental health advice, have a lower life expectancy than women and are at higher risk of dying from illness such as heart disease and cancer – this is why it’s so important to look after yourself.

Ran by the Men’s Health Forum from 15 to 21 June, the week aims to tackle key issues surrounding men’s mental and physical health. Even small actions can help us feel hopeful and less powerless. While our individual actions matter, when we come together, we are even more powerful.

While awareness is vital, real change comes when we act too. Small steps and everyday action, alongside building your wellbeing and resilience can help in your Five Ways to Wellbeing – our ability to adapt, cope, and bounce back during challenging times.

Giving and receiving help strengthens resilience. Knowing support is there makes challenges easier to face.

Five Ways to Wellbeing

1. Connect: talk and listen, be there, feel connected
2. Give: your time, your words, your presence
3. Take notice: remember the simple things that give you joy
4. Keep learning: embrace new experiences, see opportunities, surprise yourself
5. Be active: do what you can, enjoy what you do, move your mood

Ways to help you and others

• Connect NEL – Call (01472) 403403, email [email protected] or visit Home – Connect NEL for help, support and advice
• Every Mind Matters – Anyone struggling with their mental wellbeing can also reach out for support by visiting Every Mind Matters NHS. The site offers simple and practical ways to ease anxiety, manage stress, lift your mood and sleep better, through proven approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – Every Mind Matters – NHS
• Andy’s Man Club – A suicide prevention charity, offering free support in groups across the UK. For more information, visit their website and find your local group ANDYSMANCLUB – It’s Okay To Talk
• GP – You can also speak to your GP or reach out to a trusted friend or family member.

If you have an immediate concern that a person may harm themselves, call the Single Point of Access (SPA) in Grimsby (North East Lincolnshire). It operates as a 24/7, 365-day service for urgent health, mental health, and adult social care support. You can reach the service by calling 01472 256256 -Option 3.