June Is Men’s Health Month: A Time to Take Charge of Your Health
June is Men’s Health Month, a national observance dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health problems and encouraging early detection and treatment among men and boys. It serves as an important reminder for men to take control of their health through regular check-ups, healthy habits, and mental well-being. While many health issues can be managed or prevented, men often delay seeking care until problems become serious. This month is about changing that pattern and building healthier routines for the long term.
Men are statistically less likely than women to visit the doctor and more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as smoking, heavy drinking, and avoiding preventive care. As a result, they face higher risks for heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and untreated mental health conditions. Health professionals urge men to view taking care of their health not as a weakness, but as a strong and proactive step toward a longer, more active life. Prioritizing health also means being there for family, work, and community responsibilities.
Focus areas for Men’s Health Month include heart disease prevention through healthy eating and regular physical activity, cancer screenings—especially for colorectal and prostate cancer—and mental health check-ins. Emotional well-being often goes unspoken among men, but depression, anxiety, and chronic stress are common and treatable. Opening up to a mental health professional or talking to a trusted friend can be a first step toward healing and resilience. Men are also encouraged to improve their sleep, reduce alcohol intake, and stop tobacco use—all of which can significantly improve health outcomes.
Making an appointment for an annual check-up is a simple but powerful way to observe Men’s Health Month. These visits can help catch issues early, when they’re easier to treat. It's also a great time to reset health goals, whether it’s improving nutrition, being more active, or managing a chronic condition. Preventive health care isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about enhancing quality of life and being proactive about staying well.
This month, take a moment to reflect on your own health or encourage the men in your life to schedule a check-up, take a walk, or open up about how they’re feeling. Small steps today can lead to major improvements tomorrow. Men’s Health Month is more than a campaign—it’s a call to action for lifelong wellness.
Jackson County: Healthy People, Strong Community