Every June, Men’s Health Week (15th to 21st) highlights a simple but powerful message: men’s health needs more attention – physically and mentally. While progress has been made, the reality across Ireland, the UK, and globally, is that men still experience poorer health outcomes and are less likely to seek help.
Global snapshot – did you know?
The ‘Big Picture’
- Men live 4–5 years less than women globally
- Male deaths are 13% higher than female deaths worldwide
- Men are more likely to die earlier from preventable causes
Leading health risks
- Heart disease remains the #1 cause of death globally
- Respiratory diseases, cancer & stroke are also major killers
- Injuries (including road accidents) disproportionately affect men
Mental health matters
- 700,000+ people die by suicide each year globally
- Men die by suicide at more than twice the rate of women
- Suicide is a leading cause of death in young men
Lifestyle & risk factors
- 2.6 million deaths globally linked to alcohol annually
- ~80% of those deaths are men
- Smoking, poor diet & inactivity drive major diseases
The key message
- Many male health issues are preventable
- Early check-ups + small lifestyle changes = big impact
Why men are at greater risk
- Reluctance to talk about health concerns
- Social pressure to ‘tough it out’
- Lower use of healthcare services
- Higher risk behaviours (smoking, alcohol, diet)
- Delayed diagnosis of conditions like cancer or heart disease
Simple, life-changing actions
01. Know your numbers
#Blood pressure
#Cholesterol
#Weight/BMI
Small checks can prevent big problems.
02. Prioritise mental health
Talk to someone you trust.
Reach out early – not at crisis point.
Recognise signs of stress, burnout, or depression.
03. Move more
Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity, 5 days a week.
Even walking counts.
04. Eat better (without overcomplicating it)
Increase fruit and veg (many men fall short).
Cut back on processed foods and alcohol.
05. Stay connected
Strong social connections reduce risk of poor mental health and suicide.
Below are some ideas for books, podcasts, films, and talks, we’ve curated in support of Men’s Health Week.
Books to inspire and inform
Man Alive – John Lee
A classic on emotional wellbeing and masculinity.
The Mask of Masculinity – Lewis Howes
Explores how societal expectations impact men’s mental health.
Better – Dr Atul Gawande
Not male-specific but excellent on improving health behaviours and outcomes.
The Expectation Effect – David Robson
How mindset impacts health – very relevant to men’s behaviour and help-seeking.
Films/docs to spark reflection
The Game Changers (Netflix/Prime)
Documentary looking at men’s health through nutrition, fitness, and performance.
Good Will Hunting (Netflix/Prime)
Explores vulnerability, and the importance of talking.
The Mask You Live In (Apple/YouTube)
Documentary exploring how societal expectations of masculinity impact boys’ and men’s mental health.
About Time (Netflix/Now)
A subtle but powerful film about relationships, priorities, and appreciating life.
Podcasts to uplift and educate
The Man Enough Podcast with Justin Baldoni
Conversations redefining masculinity and emotional openness.
Huberman Lab (selected health episodes)
Evidence-based health and performance tips – great for male audiences.
Mind Pump
Fitness, health behaviours, and lifestyle habits with a realistic approach.
The High Performance Podcast
Includes great discussions on resilience, mindset, and mental health in men.
TED Talks worth watching
A Call to Men – Tony Porter
Challenges traditional ideas of masculinity and emotional suppression.
Why Men Don’t Go to the Doctor – Dr Will Courtenay
Insightful look at health behaviours and barriers.
Violence Against Women – it’s a Men’s Issue – Jackson Katz
Important perspective on male responsibility and societal norms.
Be a Man – Joe Ehrmann
Powerful talk on redefining strength and vulnerability.
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