Running from 9 to 15 June, Men's Health Week 2025 is a vital opportunity to shine a spotlight on preventable health issues affecting men, and to encourage earlier detection and treatment of serious conditions.
In a society that often idolises the idea of "being strong," it's time to reframe what real strength means. True strength lies in taking responsibility for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being not suffering in silence.
The Statistics Speak for Themselves
On average, men die five years earlier than women (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023) and are more likely to avoid routine checkups, delay seeking medical advice, or downplay symptoms. This reluctance contributes to men being disproportionately affected by:
- 54 per cent of male deaths in Australia being potentially avoidable
- Men are less likely to visit a doctor than women, with more than 60 per cent of GP consultations being with female patients.
- Men are less likely to undergo screening for bowel cancer, diabetes and mental health (AIHW & RACGP, 2021-2023)
- Three out of four suicides are men (ABS, 2022)
The good news? Many of these conditions are preventable or more manageable with early intervention and small lifestyle changes.
Breaking the Stigma
In our latest Keeping Up With the PaSCE podcast episode, we spoke with Glen Poole, CEO of the Australian Men's Health Forum, about what keeps men from seeking help when they need it. One of the biggest barriers, he shared, is stigma-the outdated belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness, and when health is sought systems don't validate us.
You can listen to the whole episode, or subscribe to the podcast via Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
The Role of the Workplace
Workplaces are in a powerful position to raise awareness, reduce health inequalities, and support better outcomes for men. Here's how:
- Encourage open conversations about mental health
- Just listen
- Normalise taking time off for health checkups
- Host health talks or screenings during the week- there are many running daily during this week
- Provide access to confidential support services
- Promote a culture were looking after your health is seen as a strength not a setback
Even a small initiative like inviting a guest speaker or sharing personal health stories can make a lasting impact.
Let's Change the Narrative
Don't ignore that nagging injury.
Book that overdue doctor's appointment.
If you're not feeling like yourself, reach out for support.
Men's Health Week 2025: Build Stronger Connections in Healthcare
PaSCE's Professional Development Education (PDE) offers practical training for health professionals to strengthen communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills-key to building trust and rapport, especially with male patients who may find it harder to open up.
Better conversations can lead to better care.
Take the next step in providing person-centred support for men's health. Register for an upcoming education today.
- Goals of Patient Care (GOPC)
17 June
0830-1230
- Eliciting and Responding to Emotional Cues (EREC)
31 July
0830-1300
Spots are limited- register here! Eventbrite- Professional Development Education
