By ANEEKA SIMONIS
“SHE’LL be right.”
It’s the response heard all too often by mothers, wives and friends of Aussie men when asked about their health.
It’s no secret that when it comes to admitting a health problem, men will often put on a brave face and avoid seeing their GP for conditions that worsen with time.
According to Council on the Ageing (COTA), older men outside of major cities are less likely to go to a doctor than those in urban areas and when they do they are less likely to discuss particular issues such as mental health.
But groups across the Yarra Valley are working toward strategies that will break down this culture of male bravado.
Wandin Seville Community Bank has joined with Inspiro Community Health Lilydale and St Pauls Anglican Church, Wandin, in a campaign to raise awareness for men’s health in the area.
“The number one issue is regards to men’s health is getting them to the doctor for things like mental health, prostate examinations, diet and exercise check-ups,” said Inspiro Community Health’s Business Manager David Furness.
“We need to do something to address this issue for men.”
The three local groups have formed a health survey for men in the area which will anonymously collect information to help develop targeted programs to tackle the issue.
Released ahead of Father’s Day on Sunday 7 September, the How’s Your Father survey will provide a foundation for what it hoped to be a monthly meeting for men to open a casual dialogue about often tough to talk about health issues affecting them.
“The long-term goal of the program will be to make it normal for men to discuss mental and physical health issues with their mates and families,” said Wandin Seville Community Bank chairman Jan Ockwell.
The targeted campaign is due to launch later this year. To complete the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/79M8KVN.
