1 in 8 men will experience depression. 1 in 5 men will experience anxiety. They account for 1 in 3 suicides every day, a number doubling that of the national road toll. In 2015 they accounted for 75% of all known suicides. Men are at a greater risk of death from diabetes, heart and liver disease. Who are these people? We’re talking about your brother, husband, son, friend; the men who make most impact in your life.

Men’s Health Week brings light to the state of male mental and physical health in the Australian community. This week, the challenge is to spread some not-so-well-known knowledge circulating men’s health. Many of the problems faced by this population are preventable, with treatment readily available. Early detection is encouraged to prevent further progression of disease, with some conditions reversible if detected early enough.

We bring light to this week this year to provide a platform for men and their peers to discuss the issues in their life. None too big or too small; all able to be addressed in a positive and respectful manner. We implore our community: be brave and start the conversation. Reach out to those whose health and wellbeing means most to you. A simple conversation can go a long way to assisting someone in both their mental and physical wellness journey.

If you, or anyone you know could benefit from further support, please get in contact with our Accredited Exercise Physiologists. Also, please see the below resources which provide thorough information for guidance and assistance in this area.

Men’s Health Week: www.menshealthweek.org.au

Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au

Men’s Line: www.mensline.org.au

Man Up: www.manup.org.au