Tips for employers to make men more comfortable discussing health concerns
At times, men can find it difficult to talk about their health and sensitive topics, such as sexual health.
By not talking, it can have a significant impact on their home and working lives.
As employers, what can be done to ensure men feel more comfortable to open up and discuss their health concerns?
Bringing awareness to men’s health
Despite awareness campaigns including Movember and Men’s Health Week, men can still find it challenging to talk about health issues – particularly to healthcare professionals.
The Men’s Health Forum reported that Prostate Cancer UK saw users of its online risk checker almost double the day after King Charles announced he had a problem with an enlarged prostate.
This shows that when men’s health is raised in the media, it can increase the search for more information.
Reluctance to talk about health issues
Not talking about health issues – particularly sensitive men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, fertility and erectile dysfunction – can delay treatment, impact relationships and life at home and affect performance at work.
Left untreated, symptoms can get worse or result in further complications.
Conditions, such as erectile dysfunction, are also linked to several conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
For employers, this could mean that many of your male employees may be at risk of their health becoming progressively worse.
Access to tailored support
Men can be more comfortable about finding ways to explore and learn more about sensitive health topics.
Businesses need to provide access to tailored support, as well as encourage open conversations about men’s health issues.
Does your business provide the right kind of support for individual health concerns?
Does it allow male employees to seek the reassurance they need from healthcare professionals who understand their issues and sensitivity?
The support offered by employers should cover men’s health, such as sexual function and fertility, as well as prostate and testicular screening.
As some of these conditions can be impacted by lifestyle, it’s important also to offer advice on diet and exercise.
Creating an open environment
It’s also essential to create an environment where opening up about any health concerns will be treated seriously and sensitively.
By achieving this, we may no longer rely on media stories to encourage men to seek help and support.
Bupa has a range of information on how you can help empower employees to take an active role in their health and wellbeing concerns.
In partnership with Bupa
Bupa's purpose is helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world.
