Men’s Health Month

By White Pine Wealth Management

This June, in recognition of Men’s Health Month, we’re highlighting the importance of men prioritizing their health and well-being. While general health practices like eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising are essential, there are also specific health challenges that disproportionately affect men and are often overlooked.

This month, we’re focusing on two key issues: infrequent healthcare visits and the stigma surrounding mental health. By addressing these topics, we hope to encourage men to check in with their bodies and minds to live their healthiest, most fulfilling lives.

Preventive Care and Screening

Men are statistically less likely than women to visit the doctor for routine checkups—a decision that can negatively impact longevity. In fact, men are 41% more likely to die before age 65 than women, partly due to lower rates of preventive care.[1]

Scheduling an annual checkup with your primary care physician is a vital step in detecting potential health issues early. By discussing your health history and lifestyle, your doctor can assess your risk for certain conditions and recommend lifestyle changes to help reduce those risks.

Your doctor can also screen for diseases more common in men, such as prostate and colorectal (colon) cancers or ALS. Below are the American Cancer Society’s screening recommendations:

Prostate Cancer Screening

• If you are age 50 or older and at an average risk of prostate cancer, you should talk to your doctor about screening.
• If you have a first-degree relative (father or brother) that was diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 or if you are an African American man, you are considered high risk and should screen at age 45.
• If you have more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age, you are considered higher risk and should screen at age 40.

Colon Cancer Screening

• Men who are considered average risk (those who don’t have a family history of colon cancer, personal history with an inflammatory bowel disease, known family history of hereditary colon cancer syndrome, or history of radiation in the abdomen or pelvic area to treat prior cancer) should start screening at 45 and have a colonoscopy every 10 years.
• Men who have an increased or high risk (factors stated above) are encouraged to speak with their medical providers about when they should screen as the American Cancer Society does not have any specific screening guidelines.

To hear a powerful story about facing prostate cancer, listen to the Keeping the Well in Well-thy podcast featuring Bill Potts, entrepreneur, IRONMAN triathlete, and five-time cancer survivor.[LISTEN]

Mental Health

Just like physical health, mental health is essential, but men are less likely to seek treatment. In 2022, men died by suicide nearly four times more often than women and accounted for over 68% of suicide deaths.[2] Men are also more likely to misuse substances and die from alcohol-related causes.

So how can we help break the stigma?

The first step is creating a supportive environment where men feel safe to speak up. If you’ve experienced stress, anxiety, depression, or loneliness, know that you’re not alone. Reaching out to someone you trust can be incredibly healing. Even if they’re not a mental health professional, they can be a valuable first step in expressing your feelings. Regular check-ins, whether by text, call, or video, can significantly improve your well-being and sense of connection.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, free federal help is available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

• Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
• National Helpline for treatment referrals: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

To learn more about supporting loved ones during a mental health crisis, read “Taking Action in a Mental Health Crisis” by Jane Mintz.

[READ NOW]

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

The key to improving men’s health outcomes is open dialogue. This month, we encourage our male clients to speak up, whether with a healthcare provider or a trusted loved one. And remember, we at White Pine Wealth Management are here to listen, support, and help you plan for the future.

Together, we can promote healthier, longer lives for men everywhere.

[1] Jackman, D. (2024, June 5). Men’s Health Month: 7 Tips to Prioritize Your Well-Being. Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund. https://feea.org/2024/06/mens-health-month/

[2] Suicide statistics. (2024, August 26). American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/