Vetnews | November 2025 4 « BACK TO CONTENTS A very Powerful statement indeed, but when broken down, what does it actually mean? Healthy personal and lifestyle habits rest on knowing yourself. Developing self-awareness and self-regulation helps to manage stress and recognise early signs of mental or physical health issues; regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep (7-9 hours), and stress management techniques (like mindfulness or hobbies); and regular physical check-ups and age-appropriate screenings (e.g., for prostate cancer, high blood pressure, cholesterol). To achieve optimum health, it is important that the health system is accessible and culturally sensitive to men’s needs. This includes male-specific health centres and services that proactively engage men and boys in their health. Therapists and counsellors, particularly those specialising in men’s issues, can provide effective, structured, and goal-oriented support. Normalising the conversation about therapy and offering discreet options (like telehealth) can reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. Employers can help by promoting mental health awareness, offering Employee Assistance Programs, training managers to spot concerns, and creating men’s health Employee Resource Groups. To achieve these goals, support is needed. This support is rooted in nurturing relationships with family, friends, and partners. Strong social ties reduce stress, combat loneliness, and improve overall health outcomes. Formal and informal peer groups, such as men’s support groups, sports clubs, or volunteer organisations, offer a non-judgmental “male-friendly” space where men can connect over shared interests and experiences. These environments allow men to talk “shoulder to shoulder” and share vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. Creating environments where openness is modelled and met with empathy, rather than the expectation to “toughen up,” is crucial. Activity-based conversations, such as during a walk or while working on a project, can often be more comfortable for men than formal face-to-face discussions. In every workplace, there are men. This month, Vetnews places the spotlight on the health of male colleagues. Just the next month after breast cancer month, a disease many people still believe can only happen to women, but it does occur in men as well. We have a look at what the symptoms are. Other, more common malerelated diseases are also touched on. Let us be the men who do not sweep a nagging feeling or symptom under the carpet, may we be the colleagues who pay attention to our male colleagues and lend a helping hand or willing ear, may we be the partners who look after the men in our lives, whose lives may depend on it. November is the height of the silly season, but also the time when a lot of travelling is planned and done. Please travel safely, practice safe social behaviour and take care. Andriette v From the Editor Editor’s notes / Redakteurs notas Critical support structures for men's health encompass a mix of personal, social, and professional elements that provide physical, mental, and emotional support while helping to break down traditional masculine stereotypes that hinder help-seeking. 24-Hour Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 212121
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTc5MDU=