This week is international Men's Health Week - a week described by Men's Health Week Australia as "a celebration and engagement of men with a serving of health on the side!"1
The purpose of the week is to increase awareness of general male health issues and to encourage inter- and intra-national institutions to provide better care for health issues affecting men around the world. 2
To bring things a little closer to home, we decided to bring in Wild Timor Coffee Director Cameron Wheelehen to find out how he prioritises his health and the health of those around him.
Cameron works hard as our warehouse manager among other roles- but he emphasises the importance of keeping things balanced. "If you don't have your health, what do you have? There's no point working yourself to the bone. Find that happy medium where you are still achieving your goals, but you are also taking care of yourself."
Cameron is a strong advocate for prioritising mental wellbeing.
"I always find time to do things I enjoy. Playing video games with friends, reading books that I like. Keeping in touch with mates- physical distancing doesn't mean shutting people out."
He emphasises the importance of knowing when to ask for help. "There's no shame in that. If something in your body breaks, you go to a doctor. It's the same thing with your mind; go to an expert, and say, Hey Doc, I have this thing."
When it comes to looking out for your friends, Cameron agrees that men need to look out for each other.
Checking in on someone you are concerned about can seem really daunting.
"Don't be afraid to confront someone, in a caring way. Keep checking in and asking how they are going, how they are feeling. But the person does need to want that help."
Cameron has experienced his own share of challenges with mental wellbeing.
"It depends on what day you get me. Some days I don't want to talk about it, some days I want to get it off my chest... It's okay not to be okay. But if you let yourself stay in it, that's when it can become a problem."
His advice for someone who is looking to make the first step in getting their health back on track?
"Keep it simple. Go to your GP. It's the gateway to you getting better."
If you are struggling and would like to speak with a counsellor, here is a list of free counselling services.
See here for a list of Men's Health Week activities you can participate in.