For many boys across the world, there will be an organised invitation at some point in their life, where they are invited to ‘become’ men. This may be via ceremonies, rituals or even a gang. The pressure on these boys may not be recognised as a bad thing in many cultures, as the image of ‘man’ is often portrayed as strength, might, power, vigour. As we well know, this is not always the case and now, are perceived as destructive, heavily outdated views. We only need to look at some of the worlds politicians to prove this point! Enough of politics however…
It is often understood in the world of health and wellbeing, that women are more open minded when it comes to their health or trying new ways to improve and prevent health conditions which may arise. Unfortunately though, the same can not be said for the male population, as it is noted from a survey completed by NHS England, that 28% of men worry to burden their GP or the healthcare system.
Traditional views and stereotypes of masculinity, male pride and the age-old practice of “strength in silence” are recorded by the ‘National Library of Medicines’ research findings. All are influencing factors which may prevent men from feeling as though the can seek the necessary support and medical care they deserve, or a mode they feel more comfortable with. Not to mention the impact of class and income which are limiting circumstances for males around the world, regardless of continent or ethnicity.
Men are also often generating potential issues for their health and wellbeing, simply through their lifestyles. For many males, family, control and societal expectations can become areas of suppression, which keep reoccurring, bringing with them issues. Often shoved down or even worse, medicated. Pressures from within our communities cause many men to suffer in silence, not only the aggressive force to ‘man up’ but also feelings of inadequacy, shame and even being de-masculinated. We are improving in this regard, yet there is still a long way to go.
Customarily, men prefer convenience or a little more discretion when it comes to handling their health concerns. There is often some disconnect with the known world and the unknown world – they need support to find that connection between them and the unknown. Health concerns are often the ‘unknown’. Typically males are less likely to talk about their problems, this increases with age as men in their 40’s and 50’s often become passive and they get stuck. Combined with a lack of awareness and knowledge, which can lead to more men becoming misinformed than their female counterparts. It is also understood that generally, women are able to access many more resources or support from a young age and throughout adulthood than men. This is also evident across the board in the health, wellness and beauty industries. Women, overall continue to be economically less well off, yet are subjected to more advertisements and information generally, whilst paying more for health & wellness interventions across their lifetime than males.
Yet, the ‘House of Lords Library’ reports that in the UK alone, there are inconsistencies in the gender gap when it comes to the quality of healthcare treatment. With men receiving better treatment and shorter waiting times, this is often connected unfortunately to a generally patriarchal world view – which is still very prevalent in our healthcare systems. The male body is also studied to a much higher level and therefore, clearer understanding is extensive for male health problems. Despite men seeking healthcare less, the system is much better suited and designed for their needs.
Males are unfortunately also less likely to be honest about their health and their health history, hiding issues from loved ones, blaming a busy schedule or simply, fear of diagnosis. All are contributors to the management of their health concerns, leaving signs and symptoms for prolonged periods, undiagnosed. The homeopathic consultation room is also a place that many men may not be familiar with. However in my experience, I have observed in clinical settings males tend to appreciate a private space and extra time to talk openly about themselves and their concerns, albeit strange at first, it awakens many. Online appointments are particularly popular with men and more readily available. Discussions are also unusual in a homeopathic setting and not at all like the quick five minutes with a GP. Therefore talks of dreams, ambitions, identity and world views are just some of the topics I would ask, to understand a client better and of course, appearance and body language are great communicators too!
Homeopathy can address many presenting complaints, some examples being:
- Sexual health problems
- Testicular problems such as Orchitis
- Infertility
- Urethritis/ UTI’s
- Prostate concerns
- Erectile disfunction
As well as many other matters which affect men of all ages, from stress and burnout, to digestive issues etc. Homeopathy can help with a range of health concerns, currently, the most common conditions affecting male health around the world are:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Haemorrhoids
- Stroke
- Respiratory conditions and COPD
- Flu
- Pneumonia
- HIV and Aids
- Cancer
Ageing and lifestyle
As the body begins the ageing process, from around 30 years of age men go through what is medically referred to as Andropause or ‘Male Menopause’. Andropause in contrast to the menopause, is much more gradual and often not discussed or even contemplated.
With time, men are more prone to higher blood pressure, whilst risk of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease also increase, due to the effects and changes age has on the body. Alongside lifestyle and habits, all begin to take their toll on the body, mind and general health of males, many of which are also hormonally linked.
Some of the first visual signs of ageing for men are not necessarily the same as women. Changes to facial structure and skin, which are usually the first signs of change for women display later in males (due to male skin being firmer, oilier and thicker). Testosterone, which is important for both men (the main sex hormone) and women, as it regulates our energy, mood and libido is another important factor in ageing successfully. Many males are suffering with low testosterone and don’t know it, this is heavily linked to iron levels too. Have you ever heard about Oysters being an aphrodisiac?! Oysters are high in iron, by the way!
When men begin to experience this decline, changes occur over a slower, longer course of time. Testosterone decreases gradually from the 30’s however levels are unknown, with a greater continuous decline then occurring in the 40’s and 50’s through to the 60’s. Broadly speaking, moderate weight gain and hair loss are the first visible signs of ageing for many men and are also hormonally connected, often rocking their confidence and self esteem. Image is just as important to a man as it is a women, yet much less emphasis was once placed on the ageing appearance of men, yet this is another change in attitudes. Alongside this, there are other challenges that men face such as a reduction in muscle mass and strength. More sleep, exercise and reducing stress, caffeine, sugar and alcohol can all support this depleting hormone. Lifestyle management is crucial!
Unfortunately, men are often unaware that there is a wide variety of treatments, solutions and support available for both the onset of the ageing process, as well as many other conditions as listed earlier. Due to modern lifestyles, the increased stress levels and pressure many men experience, alongside challenges of what ‘modern masculinity’ means and how roles continually evolve, have vastly altered for many. There are new obstacles for males to counteract with now, which perhaps were not always prominent before, therefore health and wellbeing becomes a tertiary issue after family and career. On the other side of this, modern views and heightened awareness now mean that health is also being regarded as something worth to consider, to ensure that both family and career can also thrive. As it stands, without good health the efforts to continue having a comfortable life, with successes and achievements proves more challenging. Often this is the wake up call men are faced with. This is a human goal, not only a male orientated goal of course, to find a fulfilling and meaningful purpose in life and feel good physically and mentally whilst reaching those targets and dreams. This can be easier to achieve, when we are happy and healthy.
From body image challenges, physical issues, mental health and stress, homeopathy has a long standing history of supporting people constitutionally, as well as compliment other treatments or medications. The biggest challenge in health care, is to enable men to feel comfortable, confident, take away the burdening feelings or embarrassment and empower in regards to wellbeing. Everybody should feel safe in the knowledge that they are able to approach a homeopath, practitioner, GP or otherwise, to discuss in faith their concerns. Using holistic treatments such as homeopathy is a great way to keep our health at its best from our own home, under our own control and to address any early warning signs. We must support the men in our communities to practice better self care and awareness too.
For now, I urge any men reading this to consider the following checkups and to put their health first. As many of you have busy schedules, stressful lives and you may need a reminder to checkup and check-in on yourself. Consider it like an M.O.T on your car, for yourself.
- Males aged 35 + should have cholesterol checked every five years.
- From the age of 40+ if there is a family history of cancer and more specifically of the prostate – prostate checks should become routine.
- 1 in 10 males n the UK have concerns with erectile disfunction. This is more common in men over 40, however if in doubt, get checked! This can also be a consequence of stress, poor diet, over consumption of alcohol and even tiredness.
- You can request from your doctor a lifestyle examination. For men the tests for cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes would be part of this exam, possibly amongst others, depending on any presenting complaints or requests you may have.
- For those working long hours in sedentary jobs, visiting an Osteopath &/or Chiropractor for realignment and to be provided with some suitable exercises to support posture and form is beneficial.
- Testosterone levels should be checked ~especially if you are living a healthy, active, balanced lifestyle, with routine, rest and adequate sleep, yet you simply feel low on energy or not quite yourself.
Aside from such checks, a balanced approach to life is as we know, always the best medicine. Moderate regular exercise, home cooked meals with the occasional treats and switching off from work at a reasonable hour, are all paramount for a healthier, happier lifestyle. Looking after ourselves should be seen as a pleasure and privilege. Over time, we must accept that our actions are either supporting or hindering our bodies and our ability to age healthily and comfortably. You need to look after yourself!
For more information on some of the items discussed in this article and some interesting reading from Chaps, a mens health charity, please see the links below.
