Publish date: 18 November 2022
This blog post has been written by Alison Albiller, practice development clinician for clinical risk.
Alison helped organise the recent visit from Three Dad's Walking ahead of World Mental Health Day.
This Saturday (19 November) marks International Men's Day and like Movember it aims is to raise awareness for men's health and wellbeing.
Men can face major challenges including prostate cancer, a higher suicide rate than women, and an overall shorter life expectancy.
Research also shows that men are less likely to seek help for their problems due to stigmas, including fear of being seen as 'weak' or acting outside gender roles.
Although our society is broadening its definition of what it means to be a man, some stereotypes stick, which makes it hard for men to see themselves as vulnerable.
It may be even harder when they come from backgrounds that uphold strong traditional views about how men should behave and act.
This International Men's Day, our male employees are encouraged to take some time to think about any stresses in their lives and how they're coping with both the little and not-so-little things going on.
For many, their complications may be dealt with easily, but if you're struggling please reach out and talk to someone.
Talking to a friend, relative or close colleague can make a positive difference.
There are other ways to get support which are listed below.
International Men's Day is a great opportunity to acknowledge achievements and positive contributions as well as empathise and show kindness to the men in our lives.
This International Men's Day we're highlighting a number of fantastic initiatives:
- Andy’s Man Club offers nationwide talking groups for men.
- Men's Shed holds community spaces for men to connect, converse and create, aiming to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- The Men’s Health Forum contains information, online training, and resources surrounding men’s health and well-being. They have several downloadable toolkits and posters that cover topics such as stress, weight loss, and diabetes.
If you work for the NHS in North West London and need support with your mental health you should check out NWL Keeping Well.
There's a live chat where you can speak to one of their team members (Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm). You can also call on 0300 123 1705 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, or request a call back for a convenient time. Staff can also complete a self-referral form available on the website. A range of self-help materials and videos are also accessible in the resources section.
Other organisations you may want to contact are:
- Samaritans (24 hours, confidentially): call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
- Text FRONTLINE to 85258 for support 24/7
- Saneline (6pm to 11pm): 0845 767 8000
In an emergency call 999 or visit A&E. Contact your GP by phone if you need immediate help. Outside of surgery hours you can call NHS Direct for more guidance on 111.
#internationalmensday #celebratemen #menshealth #stopmalesuicide
