Men’s Health Week is an annual event recognized in several countries including the USA. Usually, we celebrate the week leading up to Father’s Day aiming to raise awareness of the health issues that affect men and boys.
Women tend to outlive their male counterparts. On average the American man will live to age 76 while women live to an average age of eighty-one. (CDC FIGURES) While these stats differ based on a lot of different factors, the most important thing is that we want our fathers, brothers, sons, and co-workers to get the best out of life.
What Can Businesses Do During Men’s Health Week?
- Time Off: Allow male employees to schedule regular health screenings without PTO or Vacation time.
- Health Screenings: Encourage male employees to get regular health check-ups by offering free health screenings during Men’s Health Week. These screenings can cover a wide range of issues, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and prostate cancer.
- Host a Health Seminar: Organize health seminars during Men’s Health Week, where male employees can learn about healthy lifestyle choices, stress management, and mental health awareness. Invite medical professionals, fitness experts, and nutritionists to share their expertise.
- Offer Healthy Snacks in the Office: Think of offering fruits, nuts, and seeds as a regular feature in your break room. Encourage your male employees to make healthy food choices by hosting a healthy food challenge during Men’s Health Week.
- Promote Fitness: Physical fitness is an important part of promoting men’s health. Try organizing a lunchtime exercise group or offering discounted gym memberships. Provide information about local sports teams and fitness classes.
- Develop Substance Use and Abuse Policies: Clear substance use, and abuse policies help support wellness for all of your employees. Make sure that you provide resources and let them know, there is no shame is asking for help. (Link to blog with local resources)
Responsibility for Self-Care
The goal of Men’s Health Week is to encourage men to take responsibility for their health and to seek medical advice and treatment when necessary. Did you know:
“A new Cleveland Clinic survey confirms how widespread physician-dodging is among men: Only half of the 1,174 men surveyed said they get regular checkups, and 72 percent would rather do household chores such as cleaning the bathroom than go see their doctor.” –AARP
It also aims to promote a better understanding of the health issues that affect men and to encourage men to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Overall, Men’s Health Week serves as an important reminder that men’s health is a crucial issue that can help address this important message. Men should be initiative-taking of their own health and well-being. Not just during Men’s Health Week, but all year long.
Other ways men can be initiative-taking with health:
- Moderate drinking and tobacco use
- Talk about mental health and reduce the stigma.
- Sleep
- Make preventive healthcare your priority.
- Immunizations
- Screenings
Need more ideas? We can help!
Men’s Health Week provides a wonderful opportunity for all businesses to raise awareness about men’s health issues and promote a culture of health and wellness in the workplace. By taking these steps, businesses can help male employees lead healthier, happier, and more productive lives.
Need more help with creating a great plan for your business? AUI and ClarityHR can help.
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