November is a big month for Men's Health, with Movember spanning across the whole month and International Men's Day on the 19th. Both initiatives are all about promoting men's health and wellbeing, encouraging men to get the support they need. One of the biggest challenges for many men in Australia is opening up and having better conversations that can help with health and wellbeing.
The great thing about having a chat is that we can get it out of our heads and find ways to deal with what’s stressing us. Having that conversation early on can mean that we deal with something in the moment and stop it from escalating into something bigger. AccessEAP can help coach you to develop your own coping strategies, ways of thinking and how to work through tough times. These are life skills that can be learned and used when needed.
Here are some tips to help men reach out in times of need:
- Take action sooner rather than later. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today when it comes to your mental health.
- Just having a conversation is positive for your mental health. It is not a sign of weakness.
- Maintain social contact- keep in touch with family and friends. Try a new sport, activity with others which is good for physical health and social connection. Sporting clubs are often just meeting places where playing the sport is a bonus.
- Make looking after yourself a priority. Set goals for sleep, exercise and time out, whether that be fishing, football, reading. You can’t look after those around you if you can’t look after yourself.
- Remember that the best health can be achieved by looking after both your physical and mental health. See your GP for regular check-ups and address health issues if and when they present.
- Ask for help. Challenging life events happen to us all at some point; no one is immune. Has your loved one or partner suggested you get some help? They may have noticed you are not yourself. Listen to them, call or email us. Equipping yourself with the tools and strategies you need to cope with life’s events can be learned. Start with your EAP and a confidential appointment to start kitting up.
For more information or to book an appointment, call us on 1800 650 204.