Men have long been called upon to carry some of society’s heaviest burdens. Tasked with building our modern world, men prevail as the majority of construction, engineering, manufacturing and transportation workers. Societal expectations to provide and protect can cause men’s emotional, physical and mental needs to be overlooked.
This neglect shows up in the health outcomes of both men and women. Simply put: men don’t live as long as women. While the source of this difference is varied and multilayered, some concerns stand out. Men are statistically less likely to seek medical care — yet more likely to work in dangerous occupations and participate in riskier behaviors.
November is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month! This is an important opportunity to shine a light on the well-being of men, acknowledge their contributions, and encourage healthier choices that support longevity and better quality of life. We are deeply grateful for the countless ways men help build, sustain and improve our world. Here are a few powerful ways men can begin improving their health outcomes right now:
Connection is medicine. Spending time with people who love you, talking through challenges, and simply being seen and supported can dramatically improve mental and physical health. Extensive research on longevity consistently points to community as a primary to improve life expectancy and quality of life.
Working to provide is an important contribution, but resting is equally essential. Recovery, stillness, and intentional breaks help reduce stress, improve mood, and protect long-term health. Rest powers everything else on our journey, making it absolutely necessary.
Prevention is powerful. Regular checkups, early intervention and screenings save lives. Don’t wait until something is wrong to see a doctor. Consider joining our Workplace Exposure Research Program if you haven’t already. This is one way to get feedback about your health in a supportive environment.
Movement also powers our lives. The more we move, the longer we live. Exercise doesn’t have to be extreme. A daily walk, stretch, light strength training or recreational sport can boost heart health, improve mobility and reduce stress. Exercise releases feel-good hormones, which can also improve our mood.
“Just let it go.”
“Wipe some dirt on it and move on.”
“Men don’t cry.”
These are common phrases men hear and often believe. Men are taught from an early age to simply “hold it in,” but over time this becomes a heavy weight to carry.
Sometimes it may be hard to know exactly what you need. When you call Union EAP, we connect you with the support and resources that can help. Self-medicating or suppressing issues does not solve the pain or burdens men often carry to support others. Reaching out to loved ones or professionals can improve mental health and strengthen resilience.
We are here to help — please call us anytime at (855) 500-1915 or email info@unioneap.com !
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is more than a moment, it’s a reminder that men deserve care, rest and support just as much as they provide it for others.
By leaning into community, taking time to recover, prioritizing preventative care, staying active and opening up, men can begin to rewrite the narrative around their wellbeing. Strong men aren’t the ones who ignore their needs. Strong men are the ones who prioritize their health so they can live long, full, connected lives. Here at Union EAP, we see and honor men, this month and every month.