November: Mens Health Month



Posted 18/11/2024





Its Movember and PCS would like to put men’s health into the spotlight. Movember 2024, also known as Men’s Health Awareness Month, is an annual global campaign that encourages men to grow moustaches and participate in various activities to raise awareness about men’s health issues.


This month-long event focuses on promoting physical and mental well-being among men, addressing issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health challenges, and suicide prevention. Movember provides a platform for men to discuss their health openly, seek support, and take proactive steps towards a healthier and happier life.



Why is Men’s Health Awareness Month important?



  • Four in five suicides are by men, with suicide the biggest cause of death for men under 35.
  • In 2022, men aged 40 to 54 had the highest suicide rates in the UK.
  • In 2017, 12.5% of men in the UK were experiencing some form of common mental health condition.
  • Nearly three-quarters of adults who go missing are men.
  • Men are nearly three times as likely as women to become dependent on alcohol and three times as likely to report frequent drug use.


Mental Health



Mental illness affects people of every gender, and while the specifics may differ, it’s incorrect to assume that men don’t struggle simply because they are often portrayed, or expected, to be strong and silent. This expectation is rooted in toxic masculinity and has resulted in poor mental health outcomes for men.


Men are more likely to experience substance abuse and exhibit violence, and more likely to die by suicide. Skewed expectations around how men should display emotion can lead to a fear of being judged, or for crying or appearing “weak.” Media and television shows often portray crying men as something to be mocked, but mocking this healthy, human emotional release only serves to discourage men from crying and talking to others about their difficulties. It’s a fact – men experience depression.


Depression affects millions of men every year, making it the leading cause of disability worldwide. It’s a serious health issue that can have severe consequences, especially when left untreated. Depression is no less real than any other health issue, like diabetes or high blood pressure. It’s not in our heads and it doesn’t mean we are weak – it’s a very real illness that affects many aspects of our lives (mood, energy, strength, relationships, concentration, etc.) and is experienced by millions of people from all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances.


Depression can affect anyone, regardless of how strong or resilient we believe ourselves to be. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how to combat it and support others in doing the same. Men account for 75-80% of deaths by suicide, with untreated depression being a leading factor. Yet, with the right support and treatments in place, recovery from depression is not only possible, but achievable.


There are many misconceptions that make it difficult to recognise depression in men, and which stand in the way of men asking for the help they need and want. Just as a broken bone can cause physical pain and limit our ability to move and function, depression can cause emotional pain and make it hard for us to engage in daily activities and fully enjoy life.


Unfortunately, while no one would hesitate to seek help for a broken bone, many still hesitate to seek support for their mental health.



"DEPRESSION CAN TAKE OUR THOUGHTS TO DARK PLACES. KNOWING HOW TO MANAGE THESE THOUGHTS IS LITERALLY LIFE-SAVING."



Suicide



According to the World Health Organization, men account for 75% of all suicides. More than 90% of people who die by suicide struggle with their mental health. Researchers estimate that up to 60% of people who die by suicide have major depression.


We all go through tough stretches in our lives, and at times, we can get to the point where we feel so lost or overwhelmed that we wish we could run away, disappear, or never wake up from sleeping.


Sometimes, these thoughts come from us believing that we’re worthless, a burden to others, or nobody cares about us. Other times, such thoughts arise when we are overwhelmed by a tough situation and feel like we can’t handle it anymore. Other examples include:


  • Feeling hopeless and that there is no point in living
  • Thinking we are useless or that everyone would be better off without us
  • Feeling detached from ourselves, friends and family, or the world around us
  • Feelings of self-hate or shame
  • Fantasies about getting revenge or punishing someone with our death
  • Wishing we were never born
  • Feeling desperate, helpless, or stuck in unbearable pain that we can’t imagine ending


Depression feeds on thoughts like these, turning an abstract idea, like, “I wish I could escape from all this”, into something much more real and imminent, like, “I want to end my life”. As our mood becomes more depressed and our thinking becomes more negative, we can lose hope for the future and mistakenly see suicide as the only way out.




“Before my suicide attempt, I didn’t think I would act on my darkest thoughts. I would lie around ruminating all night, fantasising about escaping from life. Now I understand where these thoughts can lead, and how important it is to talk to someone about them.” – Age 32,



  • Suicidal thoughts have nothing to do with being weak, broken, or having a character flaw.
  • The intensity of suicidal thoughts reflects the intensity of pain we’re feeling and the degree of hopelessness of that pain ending.
  • Suicide is not inevitable and suicidal thoughts are not permanent.

Many people with previous suicidal thoughts and attempts go on to live long, healthy lives. At PCS we want you to feel that you have support if you are feeling anxious or depressed about anything.


Our Counsellor is here to listen to you if you would like a safe and confidential space to talk. To us, Men’s health is important, and we want you to always feel heard as well as listened too.


Jaime can be contacted in the following ways, jaime@personal-careservices.co.uk or 07399 809671. She also holds a drop in on a Tuesday evening each week 5pm – 8pm. You do not need an appointment, just text or call.



Virtual Drop-in Clinic





If you are feeling a little down, worried about the current pandemic, or just looking to let off some steam; our counsellor is now providing virtual drop-in sessions every Tuesday.


Issues or concerns discussed with Jaime do not need to be work related; but could include home life, relationship, or health concerns.


We want you to be assured that the counsellor here at PCS is there to listen to you in a confidential, safe and secure space.


This service is completely confidential and free to all our Staff.



PCS (Personal Care Services) Ltd



West Lancashire Investment Centre, Maple View, White Moss Business Park, Skelmersdale, Lancashire, WN8 9TG.

Tel: 01695 553930 | Email: enquiries@personal-careservices.co.uk

CQC Registration No.: 1-102477663




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