June marks Men's Health Month, and this year, Westfield Health is backing a message that's more important than ever: Bring Empathy Back. The theme, “Bring Empathy Back: Men Fight Battles We Can't Always See,” isn't just a catchy slogan; it’s a call to action to address a growing issue – the Empathy Gap.

What's the Empathy Gap? Simply put, it's the disparity between the funding, research, and support dedicated to men's health compared to women's. While progress has been made in raising awareness about women's health concerns, men's health often gets overlooked. This leads to underdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for Kiwi blokes.

Why is Empathy So Crucial? Men are often socialised to be tough, self-reliant, and to suppress their emotions. This can manifest in several ways:

• Reluctance to Seek Help: Many men avoid going to the doctor, even when experiencing concerning symptoms, fearing it's a sign of weakness.
• Mental Health Stigma: The stigma surrounding mental health is particularly strong among men, preventing them from seeking support for issues like depression, anxiety, and addiction.
• Ignoring Physical Health: Men are less likely to engage in preventative health measures like regular check-ups and screenings, increasing their risk of serious illnesses.

What Can We Do? Closing the Empathy Gap requires a collective effort. Here's how we can all play a part:

• Start the Conversation: Talk openly with the men in your life about their health and well-being. Encourage them to prioritise self-care.
• Be a Good Listener: Offer a non-judgmental space for men to share their struggles without feeling pressured to “fix” things.
• Advocate for Change: Support organisations and initiatives that promote men's health research and awareness.
• Lead by Example: Men, prioritise your own health! Schedule regular check-ups, address mental health concerns, and don't be afraid to seek help.

Westfield Health is committed to supporting the health and well-being of all New Zealanders, including our men. This Men's Health Month, let's challenge the stereotypes, break down the barriers, and bring empathy back to the conversation. Let's ensure Kiwi blokes get the support they deserve to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Check out our website for resources and information to help you and the men you care about. Kia kaha!

Resources:

• Westfield Health Website: [Insert Link Here]
• Men's Health Week NZ: [Insert Link Here]
• Mental Health Foundation NZ: [Insert Link Here]