5 Simple Ways Men Can Support Their Wellbeing

15-21^st June is Men’s Health Week and it’s a great reminder that wellbeing isn’t just about fitness goals, check ups or powering through when things get busy. It’s about the small things we do every day to look after ourselves. Men’s health, both physical and mental, and the importance of men’s wellbeing are still not talked about enough. More than half (54%) of men in England said there had been a time in the last three years when they didn’t seek medical help for a health concern, despite believing they would have benefited from professional support according to a summary report from the UK Government’s Men’s Health Strategy for England.

Here are five simple ways men can support their wellbeing this week and beyond.

Stay Connected

Human connection is an important part of our wellbeing. Around one in five men in England report feeling lonely at least some of the time, according to the NHS Health Survey for England, which highlights just how important social connection is for overall wellbeing. Catching up with friends, spending time with loved ones or even speaking to someone you haven’t connected with for a while, these meaningful connections can help people feel supported and less isolated.

Not every conversation has to be deep and meaningful, but men can find themselves carrying stress or worries without sharing them – and it shouldn’t be a burden to carry alone. Sometimes a simple conversation can make all the difference

Make time for self-care

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths or something that’s indulgent – at the heart, self-care is simply about taking time to care of yourself.

Research commissioned by Priory found that 77% of men have experienced symptoms such as anxiety, stress or depression, yet 40% have never spoken to anyone about their mental health.

So take some time in the busy day to take care of you, because your wellbeing betters. Enjoy a quiet cup of tea, read a nice book or spend some time with a hobby. Just taking a few minutes to care for yourself is a simple act of self-respect and self-care. Your wellbeing matters too.

Prioritise quality sleep

Sleep is the foundation of good wellbeing, yet its often overlooked or deprioritised when other things come up.

Getting enough sleep can help support energy levels, concentration, mood and so much more. Everyone has different needs, but creating a consistent bedtime routine can be the first step in helping you to unwind in the evening and to make your sleep real quality rest.

Try putting away your phone earlier in the evening, taking some time to wind down and really set the tone for a good night’s sleep.

Get outside every day

Spending time outdoors can do wonders for your mental health. The feeling of fresh air, natural light and the change in environment can really help to clear the mind and improve your mood. It’s also a welcome break from screens, particularly if you go out into nature.

Try incorporating a short walk during the day, maybe a lunchtime stroll, to help you feel more grounded and refreshed.

Move your body

Moving your body regularly can reduce stress, boost energy and improve your overall wellbeing. It doesn’t have to be all about intense gym workouts, it could be something as simple as stretching at home, going for a walk or a jog or maybe get some friends together for a game of football. Find ways to move your body that you enjoy and can build into your everyday life.

This Men’s Health Week, it’s time to focus on you and the small steps that can support men’s wellbeing, helping to make each day feel a little brighter.