SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU | 15 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 SHE’LL BE RIGHT? Australia is a nation known for its laid-back attitude and the iconic phrase "she'll be right". But when it comes to men's health, this relaxed approach can be dangerous. Men in Australia tend to shy away from regular check-ups, putting themselves at a higher risk of preventable health problems. Here's why prioritising regular health checks is crucial for Aussie blokes: Early detection saves lives: Many serious health conditions, like heart disease, prostate cancer and diabetes, often develop silently in their early stages. Regular check-ups allow doctors to detect these conditions early, when treatment is most effective. Early intervention can significantly improve chances of successful treatment and a longer, healthier life. Tailored advice for a better you: Health checks aren't just about screenings. They're an opportunity to discuss your lifestyle habits, family history and any concerns you may have. Your doctor can then provide personalised advice on how to manage your health risks and improve your overall well-being. Taking control of your health: Regular health checks empower you to take charge of your health. By understanding your health status and potential risks, you can make informed decisions about your lifestyle choices. This proactive approach can significantly improve your long-term health outcomes. Addressing the Aussie bloke mentality: Many men avoid check-ups due to a fear of bad news, a sense of invincibility, or simply not prioritising their health. Talking openly with your doctor about these concerns can help dispel myths and encourage a more proactive approach to health. Making checks convenient: The good news is there are plenty of resources available to make getting a health check convenient for Australian men. Medicare offers free health checks for men over 45, and many men's health organisations provide information and support. Taking action - It's easier than you think: Here are some easy steps to get started: Talk to your GP: Discuss your health concerns and schedule a regular check-up. Know your risk factors: Be aware of any family history of health conditions. Check for government initiatives: Explore Medicare benefits and government-funded health programs for men. Don't be afraid to ask questions: Your doctor is there to guide you and address any concerns you may have. Remember, prioritising your health isn't just about you – it's about your mates, your family, and living life to the fullest. So, ditch the "she'll be right" attitude and make regular health checks a priority. Your future self will thank you for it. 10th 16th June Men's Health Week is a time to raise awareness about the importance of men's physical and mental wellbeing. What better way to do that in Australia than with a classic barbie? Here's how to throw a sizzling Aussie barbie that sparks conversations about men's health: A BBQ WITH BITE: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Healthy choices: Balance out the classic snags with leaner options like grilled chicken or fish. Veggie skewers and healthy salads add colour and essential nutrients. Hidden champions: Sneak in health-boosting ingredients. Add chopped veggies to burger patties or experiment with healthier sausage alternatives. MORE THAN JUST SNAGS: ACTIVITIES FOR BODY AND MIND Get active: Set up a backyard cricket pitch, organise a frisbee throwing contest, or suggest a group walk before the barbie. Physical activity is a great way to bond and boost mental health. Open the conversation: Men often struggle to talk about their health concerns. Have some information pamphlets from men's health organisations like the Australian Men's Health Forum available. Consider including a "conversation starter" question on the invite, like "What's your favourite way to stay active?" A CELEBRATION OF MATESHIP: BUILDING CONNECTIONS Make it inclusive: Encourage men of all ages and backgrounds to attend. This is a chance to build connections and a strong support network. Guest speaker: Invite a local health professional or someone who's passionate about men's health to share a short, informal talk. THE FINISING TOUCHES: A BLOKE-FRIENDLY VIBE Donate and dedicate: Collect a small donation per person for a men's health charity. Let everyone know the cause you're supporting. The right atmosphere: Keep it relaxed and casual. Good music, comfortable seating, and some laughs go a long way. By incorporating these ideas, your Aussie barbie can be a fun and meaningful way to raise awareness about men's health. Fire up the barbie, spark important conversations, and celebrate the blokes in your life. FIRE UP FOR THE BLOKES The great Aussie barbecue is a great time for men to open up. (PS) Australia's largest mental health and fitness event, The Push-Up Challenge, is back in 2024, encouraging Australians to push for better mental health. Participants will take on 3249 push-ups across 24 days in June, putting the spotlight on the tragic number of lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2022. Thousands of Australians from all ages and walks of life participate in the event which engages people in mental health through connection, physical activity and education. "The Push-Up Challenge is a great way to get fit, connect with your community and learn about mental health, all while honouring lives tragically lost to suicide," founder of The Push-Up Challenge, Nick Hudson, said. "It's likely everyone will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives, so by getting involved, we hope to break down the stigma attached to mental illness and help Australians be more proactive about their mental health." The Push-Up Challenge is a free event, and participants can choose to fundraise and support beneficiary partners Lifeline or headspace, or the charity which runs the event, Push for Better Foundation. Fundraising is an optional part of the event. "With our focus on mental health education, Lifeline's 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services, and headspace's early intervention services for young people, we'll build on our work that engages Australians in a holistic conversation about mental health," Mr Hudson said. Colin Seery, chief executive officer of Lifeline Australia said, "Just like Lifeline's services, The Push-Up Challenge is for everybody. The wonderful thing about the Challenge is how it connects people through exercise, while empowering them with ways they can make a positive difference to their own and others' mental health. "We are delighted to continue our partnership with The Push-Up Challenge to encourage Australians to not just talk about their mental health, but take proactive steps to learn how to best support each other and recognise when they might need to put their own hand up for help." In 2023, more than 215,000 participants completed 300 million push-ups and raised over $14.7 million for mental health. TAKE THE PUSH-UP CHALLENGE "We are proud to partner again with The Push-Up Challenge and Lifeline, working together to ensure young people across Australia know help is always available in tough times," chief executive, headspace, Jason Trethowan, said. Staying active is an important part of a healthy headspace, and The Push-Up Challenge is the perfect opportunity to get moving, connect with community and help get more people the support they need. With suicide the leading cause of death for young people in Australia, there's never been a more important time to support the work of headspace, Lifeline and Push-Up Challenge. Participants of all ages and abilities push-up while learning about mental health, with the number of daily push-ups changing to reflect a vital mental health fact. And if completing 3249 push-ups feels out of reach, participants can set their own pushup goal or choose exercise alternatives such as sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises, with progress tracked through a dedicated app. You can register for The Push-Up Challenge as an individual, team, or get your whole workplace, club, gym or school involved at www.thepushupchallenge.com.au. Senior Constable Raymond Day, Senior Sergeants James Wearne and Angelo Lando performing push-ups at the Bairnsdale Police Station as part of the ‘Push-up Challenge’ during 2022. PH:5152 4030 59 Main Street, Bairnsdale RAISE A GLASS FOR MENS HEALTH
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