MENS HEALTH WEEK 13TH - 19TH JUNE 2022

This week is International Men's Health Week running from 13th to 19th June 2022. Men's Health Week was created twenty years ago and is designed to give all boys and men access to the information, services, and treatment each man needs to live healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.

The Mivan Health, Wellbeing and Social Committee (HWSC) fully embraced the week and promoted a number of activities to help men think about their health and how they can improve it. This was communicated on a daily basis by sending out tips and resource links to raise awareness of what is available to men and encourage a pro active approach to health. For example, did you know, the majority of men surveyed by the Men’s Health Forum said they would go to the doctor with a physical symptom but only 19% would go for anxiety and 15% for low mood.

To help improve feelings of isolation and/or loneliness a lunch was supplied to encourage all staff, including site staff, to join and eat together. As can be seen it was very successful. Well, who doesn't like a free bit of pizza. Another day all male colleagues where encouraged to go for a walk at lunch time, those participating given extra time to enjoy the walk but still have enough time to eat lunch when returned. Physical exercise is a critical must for any healthy man or person.

Really helpful information, tips and resources were circulated daily to all staff. These provided details of support services such as help to improve mental health, a DIY MOT for men, health checks available and Can Do Checker.

Finally, over twenty five staff have signed up to participate in a weekly football match, facilitated by Mivan, to encourage more regular physical activity. This is a reminder to all men that the other fifty one weeks of the year are just as important as Men's Health Week.