Men’s Health in the Workplace: Why It’s About More Than Mental Health
When we talk about men’s health in the workplace, the conversation often focuses on mental health, particularly the importance of encouraging men to speak openly about how they’re feeling. It’s an important discussion, and one that deserves continued attention, but looking after men’s wellbeing involves much more than mental health alone.
Physical health, everyday lifestyle choices, work/life balance and our willingness to ask for help all play a part in how we feel and function.
For employers, this creates an opportunity to take a broader approach to men’s wellbeing. Rather than focusing on individual health concerns in isolation, organisations can help employees develop greater awareness of their overall health, recognise when something needs attention and feel more confident taking appropriate action.
Why Men’s Health Deserves More Attention
It’s easy for our own health to slip down the priority list when we’re juggling work, family and everyday responsibilities. Appointments get postponed, tiredness becomes something we accept, and finding time for ourselves can feel like a luxury.
For some men, embarrassment, uncertainty or a reluctance to ask for help can create additional barriers, particularly when it comes to discussing mental health or certain physical symptoms.
Encouraging greater awareness and making it easier to access support can help people feel more confident about taking their health seriously.
Notice → Respond: A Practical Approach to Wellbeing
One of the key messages behind our new Men’s Health & Wellbeing Workshop is a simple one: Notice → Respond.
It’s about becoming more aware of what’s happening with our health and wellbeing and recognising when something might need attention.
That could mean noticing that stress is affecting your sleep, making time for a health appointment you’ve been putting off or recognising that you need a better balance between work and personal life.
The same approach applies to supporting others. Sometimes we notice that a colleague, friend or family member doesn’t seem quite themselves but aren’t sure what to say. Taking the time to check in and listen can be a helpful starting point, without feeling responsible for solving their problems.
Supporting Men’s Health in the Workplace
Employers have an opportunity to encourage positive conversations about men’s wellbeing and help employees feel more comfortable prioritising their health.
To support these conversations, we’ve recently introduced our Men’s Health & Wellbeing Workshop, which takes a practical, holistic approach to mental health, physical health, lifestyle and work/life balance.
The session encourages participants to reflect on their own wellbeing, recognise when something needs attention and consider positive steps they can take to look after themselves and others.
We’re offering the workshop in a range of formats:
- 60-minute online workshop
- 90-minute online or onsite workshop
- Half-day onsite workshop
International Men’s Day and Movember provide a timely opportunity to bring men’s health into focus, although these conversations are equally important throughout the year.
If you’re planning activities for International Men’s Day or would like to introduce the Men’s Health & Wellbeing Workshop to your employees, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us via email – info@atworkwellbeing.co.uk or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
