10 Tips for Men’s Health
by Journey to Health Program Director, Becky Anderson
June is National Men’s Health Month, and it’s a powerful reminder that men’s physical and mental well-being deserve daily attention—not just when something goes wrong. Men are more likely to get sick from serious health problems and often die years earlier than women, largely from preventable causes.
Why June Matters For Men
- June has been recognized as National Men’s Health Month since the early 1990s to raise awareness about preventable health problems in men and boys.
- During this month, health organizations across the country focus on education, screenings, and conversations that help men take charge of their health.
- Men’s Health Week, leading up to Father’s Day, puts an extra spotlight on encouraging fathers, sons, brothers, and partners to prioritize their well-being.
The Reality Men Are Facing
- Men in the United States die on average about five to six years earlier than women, often from conditions like heart disease, cancer, and injuries that could be reduced with lifestyle changes and early care.
- Men are less likely than women to see a doctor regularly and more likely to delay care until a problem becomes serious.
- There is also a “silent crisis” in men’s mental health: men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, and millions of men experience depression each year.
What “Taking Care” Really Looks Like
- Schedule routine checkups and recommended screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, cancer screenings, and mental health checks) instead of waiting until something feels wrong.
- Build daily habits that support long-term health: move your body regularly, choose nourishing foods, get enough sleep, avoid tobacco, and limit alcohol.
- Pay attention to stress, mood, and relationships—reaching out for support, talking with a professional, and staying connected are just as important as any workout.
How Loved Ones Can Support Men
- Start the conversation: ask the men in your life how they’re really doing and encourage them to be honest about their health and stress levels.
- Offer practical support, like going with them to appointments, helping them schedule checkups, or inviting them to join you for a walk or healthier meal.
- Normalize self-care for men—remind them that taking care of their bodies and minds is not a sign of weakness, but of strength and responsibility to themselves and those who love them.
A Simple Call To Action
This June, let’s challenge the idea that men have to “tough it out” and suffer in silence. If you’re a man, use this month as your starting line: make an appointment, move your body, talk to someone you trust, and choose one healthy habit you can commit to today. And if you love a man, stand beside him, encourage him, and remind him that his health matters—every month, but especially this one.
