Movember Month – 5 things men can do today for a better health
Do you know a man who could improve his health? Maybe you’re one of them. Every year, the month of November is renamed Movember helping shine a spotlight on men’s health.
Let’s face it, men’s health often takes a backseat. For example, men are less likely to see a doctor than women, men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women, and they are more likely than women to be hospitalized for long-term complications for conditions such as diabetes, pneumonia, and congestive heart failure.
The Movember Movement
That’s why the Movember movement, a leading charity with a goal of changing the face of men’s health, is devoted to bringing awareness to this crisis men face.
Take for example the fact that men die on average 6 years earlier than women. This movement wants to change this statistic aiming to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25% by 2030.
While there are numerous proactive lifestyle changes men can do improving their health, here are five suggestions men can start implementing today:
1.Build up relationships with people who have a positive attitude
As humans, we crave connection with others. It’s not normal to spend inordinate amounts of time alone or not having someone to spend time with. That’s why it’s important for men to stay connected with others.
Who in your life makes you feel good about yourself or has a positive influence on you? Spend more time with those people – it’s good for you mentally and emotionally.
Make the effort to catch up regularly with friends and family by checking in with them often. Today, take time to visit, call, text, or use social media to connect with a friend you haven’t spoken with in a long time. You’ll make their day and yours.
2.Express yourself
Some men are “talkers” while others are stoic, rarely opening up on their thoughts or feelings. As men, we’ve been taught from an early age to “be a man.” Meaning, “real” men are tough, strong, uncomplaining, and long-suffering. But displaying a tough exterior while hurting inside will eventually harm your health. More men say their friends can rely on them for support, but far less say that they rely on their friends. This means that we are happy to help other people while being afraid to reach out for help.
Talk to those who support you and be there also for men who need someone who will listen to them.
3. Get informed about prostate cancer
Starting with the age of 50, discuss with your doctor about prostate cancer and about getting a PSA test. If you have African American origins or have members in your family who suffered from prostate cancer, you are at an increased risk for this disease. Schedule a doctor’s appointment as early as possible! Today, educate yourself about prostate cancer.
4. Know your risk for testicular cancer
It’s time to get acquainted with your testicles. Watch this video to know what’s normal for you. Just like women should have regular checks for breast cancer, men need to check regularly their testicles. If something doesn’t feel right, go to your urologist right away.
5. Be proactive
Every day, find ways to be physically active. Movement through exercise is always a win-win for improving your overall health and well-being. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Walk more
- Take the stairs
- Cycle to work
- Lift weights to prevent muscle mass loss
- Walk around instead of sitting when talking on your phone
Men, here’s your chance to make a difference in your life. You can lead a healthier, happier, and longer life by embracing healthy habits that positively influence your physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.