There is nothing more important than your health. Everyone takes their health for granted until it is flaying or in a dire situation. Don’t wait until you get to that point. Learn to read the warning signs, recognize the symptoms and take steps to improve and maintain your health and wellbeing throughout your lifetime by incorporating daily exercise, preventative health check-ups, proper sleep management, managing mental health issues, and finding ways to relax and unwind. Taking vitamins and supplements can greatly improve the quality of your life. Most people do not eat right or don’t eat enough of the nutrients they need to sustain their bodies. Making them more susceptible to diseases and weakened immune systems. To find out more about supplements and what is right for you, take a look at a review of one natural product here.
It is impossible to cover all aspects of health and healthcare in one article, thus, this article focuses on men’s health. It provides general health information and advice, some of the most common issues are listed below. Please note that the information and advice given here does not replace the need to seek an appointment with a doctor to discuss further health concerns.
Men and Silence
Many men do not seek medical advice or attention because they often believe that their symptoms are nothing and that they can work through them. However, preventative men's health check-ups are of utmost importance, they should include:
- Blood pressure and cholesterol checks - Medication may be needed to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Prostate examinations - Natural supplements may be recommended.
- Skin inspections - Getting moles and sun damage inspected can prevent skin cancer.
Men are known for bottling things up. This is mainly due to the popular nostrum that men are rocks, unfeeling and unyielding. Furthermore, many men believe that they need to do it all, by themselves - alone. They put off talking with friends when they are feeling down, put off going to the doctor, and put off talking to their spouses about how they are feeling because they have the idea that ‘being a man’ means being silent and strong. This is a mistake. These kinds of social norms around masculinity can be really harmful, especially when it comes to your mental health.
Men may also need the extra support, other than close family or friends, when trying to work through mental health issues, especially when dealing with depression and anxiety. It can make it really hard for many of them to acknowledge when they are not feeling too well and even harder to reach out for the kinds of support they need when they are struggling. So, remember that taking action to call in extra help is the responsible thing to do. Depression is a high-risk factor for suicide for both men and women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 300 million people suffer from depression worldwide, between 2005 and 2015 this number has risen by 18%. In the United, States, white males accounted for 7 of 10 suicides in 2015.
What are the symptoms of depression?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms of depression may include the following:
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
Final Thoughts On Men's Health
If you feel you are depressed or have suicidal thoughts, contact someone immediately. Just because you are a tough guy, does not mean you are immune to this condition. Seek help, don’t remain silent.