Men’s health

Did you know that 1 in 8 men in the UK experience a mental health problem and 75% of suicides are men? No me neither, but our fathers, brothers, partners and male friends are important to us and that is why we need to let them know that we are all here for them as men are dying too young from mental health problems.

There is this unknown stigma that surrounds men and the ability to share and express their feelings which is why it is important to ask those around us to talk, listen, encourage and check in with us.

What is Mental Health?

Everyone has ‘mental health’ and it can be thought of in terms of our emotional wellbeing, how we feel about ourselves, our ability to socialise and our ability to develop. There are many different types of mental health problems and here we name just a few of many:

• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder
• Depression
• Eating Problems
• Panic Attacks
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Stress
• Sleep Problems
• Self-harm

What support is available?

Speaking up to those around you is one of the first things you can do if you are suffering from mental health problems, however, sometimes you may not be able to. There are many different services and charities available for you to use which provide information and support when it comes to your health.

Speak to your GP: Visiting your GP and talking about the concerns and problems you have is a great step. Your GP will be able to assess your circumstances and needs, listen to your problems and offer the appropriate advice and treatments.  If necessary they may refer you to a specialist mental health service for further advice.

PAPYRUS prevention of young suicide: According to PAPYRUS in 2016, 1666 young people under the age of 35 took their own lives and over three-quarters of them were boys or young men. PAPYRUS is there to support, equip and influence young people, offering confidential support to those who are struggling with thoughts of suicide. If you need advice or are worried about someone then give them a call on 0800 068 4141.

CALM: Suicide is the biggest killer of men under the age of 45 in the UK. CALM, the Campaign Against Living Miserably are there to offer support, push for change in policy and practise, set up campaigns and support those bereaved by suicide. If you would like to talk to CALM call 0800 58 58 58.

Mind: It’s important to seek support and help when you experience mental health problems so that you can understand your condition and what is happening. Mind offer support and information for those who need help, ensuring that no one has to face a mental health problem alone. Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463 to speak to someone.

What can you do to help?

As previously mentioned, speaking and checking in with those around you is an important thing you can do. Let your friends and family know that they can speak to you if they ever need to. It is also important that you also know who you can speak to as well, whether that is your friends, family, GP or different support services and charities.

Raising awareness and money for charity is one-way people can help, to ensure that those who need support get the help that they need. The Movember Foundation, a leading charity changing the face of men’s health, campaign every November to raise awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health and suicide prevention. The movement involves either growing a moustache, getting physically active or you can host an event with your friends to raise money for the cause and spreading awareness.

At General & Medical, we understand the importance of looking after your health both physically and mentally, which is why when you take a Private Health Insurance policy out with us we’ll give you access to our Health and Wellbeing Support Services which offer a wide range of services including our telephone counselling. You’ll be able to confidentially speak with fully trained and qualified counsellors about a wide range of topics including your mental health, work-life, family life and much more.