For Men’s Health Month, check in on your physical and mental health

June is Men’s Health Month, and we’re encouraging all men to take care of their overall health. Regular visits with a primary care provider (PCP) are vital to addressing preventable health issues, including those you’re at a higher risk for. Do your health a favor by putting a checkup on the calendar.

Why Men’s Health Month exists

June has been designated Men’s Health Month since 1992—with a blue ribbon to signify awareness about men’s health issues. That includes both physical and mental health. With so many men not prioritizing their health—skipping over routine checkups and age-specific screenings—LCMC Health wants to encourage men to take better care of themselves. Now’s a good time to focus on yourself.

Shed the stereotype: Stay in tune with your health

You take your SUV in for regular maintenance, right? The same goes for your HVAC unit before the heat of a New Orleans summer sets in.

If you check on the health of your possessions, why wouldn’t you do the same for yourself? A visit with your PCP is an important part of overall healthcare for men. During these visits, your PCP can talk through any health problems you’re facing and suggest screenings for the early detection of health conditions, such as cancer and heart disease.

The numbers about men’s health are staggering. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13.2% of American men are considered in “fair or poor health.” Many more, though, are at risk of health issues due to their lifestyle habits:

• Fewer than one-third of men get the recommended amount of exercise each week.
• Approximately 40.5% of men are obese.
• More than 51% of men have high blood pressure and/or are taking medication to lower blood pressure.

Men are also more likely than women to smoke and drink alcohol excessively—and to make risky choices.

If you’re looking to ensure your health is on the right track and to prevent common health issues, such as prostate cancer and heart disease, your annual checkup is a good place to begin. Knowing what you need to improve about your health and your lifestyle can help you add years to your life.

Don’t forget about your mental health

While you can see visible signs of many conditions affecting your body, the symptoms of diminished mental health may be less obvious. When we talk about men’s health, mental health is no less important.

According to Mental Health America, more than 6 million American men experience depression in a given year, while more than 3 million men have some type of panic disorder or phobia.

Your PCP can help you keep an eye on your mental health. If you’re frequently feeling overly stressed, anxious or sad, it’s worth chatting with your provider, who will offer suggestions that may improve your mental health or can refer you to a specialist who can help.

When you aren’t at your best mentally, don’t ignore what you’re feeling. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness or a reason for shame or stigma—it’s a sign of strength.

Make an appointment with one of our men’s health providers who can help you keep an eye on your physical and mental health.