Of all things, NOT about health concerns. This month is flying by! Of course, because this is my advocacy, I can’t tell you how men have laughed and said, “I heard your article was about going to the doctor this month.” Or that “Somebody forwarded your message to me trying to get me to my doctor.” Being who I am, I asked, “And?”
Men often keep their health a secret for various reasons, and it’s important to recognize both the challenges and opportunities for sharing health information. Here are some insights:
Reasons Men Keep Health a Secret:
Fear of Stigma: Men worry about how others perceive their illness. They fear judgment, speculation about its cause, and potential negative consequences in professional or social settings.
Fear of Pity: Men may avoid sharing health issues because they associate pity with weakness. They want emotional support but not pity, as it can intensify feelings of vulnerability.
Shame and Self-Judgment: Men may feel ashamed of their illness, leading to self-imposed stigma. They judge themselves harshly, affecting their willingness to discuss health matters.
Privacy and Control: Some men value privacy and control over their health information. They want to manage their health independently without interference from others.
This Men’s Health Month recognition campaign is quickly ending. You sir are a priority!
These reliable resources for men’s health information may be helpful.
To Your Health,
Cynthia Malone
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