Men’s Health Week 2022: Seeking therapy is a great way to deal with mental health issues
Meaning
International Men’s Health Week was initiated by six leading organizations that focus on men’s health. He was officiated at the second global meeting by the World Congress on Men’s Health in Vienna, Austria in 2002.
Men’s Health Week was commemorated as a step towards raising awareness of global issues revolving around the general health and well-being of men and boys. The focus is to change mentalities and policies that favor the improvement of their health.
Western Sydney University aims to engage communities around the world to come together and work to improve the lives of men.
Theme
Men’s Health Week has been celebrated in mid-June every year since 2002. The idea of observing Men’s Health Week annually is to draw attention and awareness to the well-being of men around the world.
This year’s theme announced by Western Sydney University is “Building Healthy Environments for Men and Boys”. This year’s theme focuses on the importance of providing a better environment for men. Our society often overlooks the mental and emotional needs of men and considers them ‘stronger’.
Western Sydney University wants to focus more on men’s mental health this year. Through Men’s Health Week 2022, we try to create a welcoming environment for the needs of men around the world.
Why is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Important?
As discussed above, this year’s Men’s Health Week theme is “Building Healthy Environments for Men and Boys.” Drawing a healthy and attractive environment for men is more important than ever.
Mental health problems remain a taboo worldwide. This lack of importance given to mental health prevents people from seeking the help they need. Providing a safe and professional environment for men can help reduce and combat mental health issues in general. Poor mental health poses various health complications, affects personal relationships, and hampers productivity at work, among other problems.
Here are some common adverse effects of poor mental health:
Mood disorders
The lack of adequate guidance in mental health is common as a whole. This lack of sensitivity to mental health also affects the men around us. In fact, researchers have reported that more men are affected by depression than women. Men also often experience stress, tension, and other worrying mood disorders due to problems at work and/or at home.
Alcohol abuse
Alcohol abuse is one of the most common byproducts of mental health problems among men. Prolonged alcohol abuse can even pose a threat to physical health. Alcohol abuse can also worsen interpersonal relationships and the quality of work in the workplace.
Of smoking
Smoking, similar to alcohol abuse, is a byproduct of poor mental health in some cases. Smoking has often been advocated as a solution to excess stress and tension. However, this ‘solution’ causes more harm than good. Smoking can cause cancer and negatively affect the body’s ability to function properly.
Other chronic diseases
Long-term, undiagnosed mental health problems along with frequent alcohol and tobacco use can also cause other chronic illnesses. Therefore, getting treatment for mental problems is important for physical health. Poor mental health can also disrupt eating habits and routines. Mental problems can cause eating disorders, such as loss of appetite, binge eating, etc.
How can we contribute?
This year’s Men’s Health Week theme focuses on creating a better environment for men. We must take these steps to provide them with a comfortable and accepting environment.
Here are some ways we can contribute to this cause:
Create an accepting environment
The first thing to build a healthy environment is to be supportive. Accepting the mental needs of the men around us is a great way to start. Creating support groups and normalizing the search for professional help can help combat the taboo around mental problems.
start early
As the theme suggests, we should also focus on younger men. Providing children with an environment where they can communicate their feelings and concerns is a great way to instill an open dialogue about mental health.
provide guidance
In addition to providing support and creating an accepting environment, we should also encourage seeking professional help. Policies to put into practice the importance of seeking professional help. Seeking therapy, counseling and medication if needed are professional and healthy ways to seek mental help.
Avoid burnout
Stress and various other mental disorders can be caused by burnout at work or at home. Taking a break when needed can help reduce the chances of developing various mood disorders. Exercising, listening to music, dancing, socializing are proven ways to help improve your mood and promote happy hormones.
Implement a healthy lifestyle
As discussed above, mental health problems can arise or worsen through the intake of alcohol and other substances that are harmful to health. Following a healthy lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, exercise routine, and socializing can help reduce your chances of developing mood disorders.
In conclusion, we must aim to end the taboo that revolves around mental health. We must always recognize the importance of proper mental health and the need for professional guidance. In the event that you or someone close to you is experiencing mental health issues, we encourage you to seek professional help. Like other illnesses, mental health problems can only be treated once they are diagnosed by a professional.
Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.
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