June is National Men’s Health Month

June is National Men’s Health Month, a health holiday created to raise awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection of disease among men and boys.

On average, men die five years younger than women, and die at higher rates from nine of the top 10 causes of death (Source: health.gov). This impacts their ability to be supportive partners, involved fathers, and engaged community members – which is why Men’s Health Week starts on June 11 and ends on June 17th (Father’s Day).

Here are just a few ways the men and boys in your life can improve their health not for just a month, but year-round:

• Get regular checkups. See your regular doctor every year and visit any referred specialists for health issues that have changed over the year.
• Get physical. Regular exercise is key to healthy living. If you can’t commit to a long workout, aim to get in just ten minutes, three times a day to start out.
• Eat well. A healthy diet is just as important as exercise. Make sure you have a diet that includes heart-healthy fruits and vegetables, and limits saturated fat, sugars, and extra salt.
• Seek treatment for depression. Depression is one of the leading causes of disease or injury worldwide for both men and women. Learn to recognize the signs and how to help the men in your life (Source: CDC).
• Know the signs of depression. These include persistent sadness, grumpiness, feelings of hopelessness, tiredness and decreased energy, and thoughts of suicide.

Knowing your numbers and your health right now is key. If you haven’t seen a doctor in over a year, make an appointment to find out your blood pressure and discuss any risk factors in your family history.

To learn more visit these resources:
CDC – National Men’s Health Week
Health.gov – June is Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Library