Men’s Health Week, originating in the United States in 1994, has since spread to countries around the world and expanded to a wider Men’s Health Month – in June each year.
By focusing on preventive measures, early detection, and proactive health management, Men’s Health Month plays a crucial role in encouraging men to take responsibility for their wellbeing. It aims to reduce the stigma surrounding men’s health issues, promote open dialogue, and empower men to make informed decisions about their health.
Men’s Health Week raises awareness of the health issues that affect men disproportionately and encourages men to become more aware of health problems they may have or could develop. It focuses on helping men to gain the courage to do something about their health.
The Mental Health foundation provides a summary of research that highlights the way mental health can affect men differently and disproportionately:
- Men are more likely than women to die by suicide.
- Men are less likely to seek support for their mental health, with only a third of NHS referrals to therapy being for men. However, men are more likely to be sectioned under the mental health act than women.
- Men are more likely to be affected by certain types of homelessness - nearly 87% of those who sleep rough on the streets identify as Male.
- Men are three times more likely than women to become dependent on drugs or alcohol.
At Sussex, and via the University of Sussex Students’ Union, we have lots of support available for issues including access to:
- Therapy and counselling
- Support from an on-site GP at the University Health Centre
- Information around sexual health
- Housing, and other types of practical advice
- Independent advice from the students’ union
There are also numerous social opportunities aimed at increasing Sussex students’ support networks, including wellbeing events and students’ union clubs and societies.
At Sussex, Men’s Health Month 2024 presents a valuable opportunity to prioritise men’s wellbeing, address health challenges, and promote healthy lifestyles. Whether it’s encouraging regular check-ups, engaging in physical activities, sharing health information, or supporting men’s health organisations, every effort counts towards creating a culture of proactive and holistic health among men.