It was Glenn Close who said, “What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.
Men’s Mental Health Month is a designated time period with the goal of increasing awareness and fostering conversation on issues related to men’s mental health. Although there isn’t a designated Men’s Mental Health Month, it may be observed at different periods throughout the year in various nations. June is men’s mental health month.
Since 1994, when it was first referred to as National Men’s Health Week, then Men’s Health Month, now known as Men’s Mental Health Month, has been a recognized holiday.
The day was officially established by President Clinton at the time.
Although the early background of Men’s Mental Health Month is not well known, it has been more well-known in recent years as a result of a larger initiative to address issues related to men’s mental health.
Males are expected to be stoic providers, people who are primarily appreciated for what they contribute to society. They have also historically been respected for their mental fortitude and physical tenacity rather than their propensity to display gentler emotions.
Men’s mental health issues have frequently been disregarded and ostracized, yet recent years have seen the beginning of shift in this antiquated viewpoint.
In order to provide resources, support, and education on men’s mental health, a number of organizations, mental health activists, and neighborhood groups frequently plan events, campaigns, and initiatives during this month. Initiated to get men talking about mental health, these programs may involve awareness campaigns, mental health tests, workshops, seminars, online debates, and online forums.
One such organization is the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH). The WDRH specialist medical outreach Team hosted a fitness challenge competition on June 16
, 2023 in observance of Men’s Health Month.
Event coordinator, Calvin Roberts leading the team.
Coordinator of the event, Mr.Calvin Roberts noted that not much emphasis is usually placed at activities geared toward men. “On this note, I decided to host the first fitness challenge to raise awareness of Men’s Health Month,” Roberts said.
Mr.Randy Khemraj Representing the Records Department
This event is geared at having all Male staff of the WDRH participating in activities such as, weight lifting, exercise, speed training, stairs climbing, and cycling amongst others.
In addition, health talks were conducted, surrounding men’s related topics such as prostate cancer screening – that encourages males to take charge of their well being, make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices and seek appropriate medical support where needed.
Even Male participants received a token of appreciation or a gift certificate to be used at either a barbershop or gym.
Mr.Revin Chandrabose one of the recipients of a gift certificate and hamper.
Nurse Keenan Pitt, representing the Emergency Room Department
The event was a grand success and could not have been possible without sponsorship from Massy stores, Ride Along Gy, Mango Tree Bar, Professional Clippers Barbershop, Dada’s Grill, and Rewind Bar amongst many others.
Mr.Revin Chandrabose representing the Pharmacy Department
It’s crucial to remember that men’s mental health issues are year-round issues and not just a problem during one particular month. However, designating a month to this cause brings attention to the unique difficulties that men confront and inspires action to promote their mental health.
Mr.Jordan Barnwell another recipient of a gift certificate and hamper.
