5 Ways to Support Men's Health at Work
Supporting men’s health at work should be about more than a one-off awareness campaign or reminding people to “look after themselves”. The workplace can have a significant influence on physical health, mental wellbeing and whether people feel comfortable asking for support.
So, what can employers do to better support men’s health in the workplace?
Here are 5 ways to support men’s health at work:
Create a workplace culture where it’s okay to talk about health (including mental health)
Many men still face barriers when it comes to talking about mental or physical health. Research suggests that traditional expectations around masculinity, including self-reliance and appearing strong, can discourage some men from seeking help. You can help by making conversations about health and wellbeing feel normal rather than something that only happens when someone is struggling. Leaders and managers play an important role here: talking openly about wellbeing can help give others permission to do the same.
Offer more than a one-off wellbeing initiative
A single webinar during Men’s Health Week is a great starting point, but meaningful employee wellbeing support needs to be more consistent. Consider offering a variety of support, such as mental health workshops and training, health screenings, Q&A fireside chats, movement opportunities, coaching and practical on-demand resources. Not everyone engages with wellbeing in the same way, so providing choice is key.
Make movement part of the working day
Physical activity can support both physical and mental health, but busy working lives can make exercise feel like another thing on an already long to-do list. Supporting movement at work doesn’t mean expecting everyone to become a gym enthusiast. Walking meetings, encouraging proper lunch breaks, cycle-to-work schemes and active team building events or challenges can all make being active feel more realistic, accessible and enjoyable.
Take men’s mental health at work seriously
Stress, burnout and poor mental health can affect anyone, but some men may be less likely to seek professional support. Make sure employees know what support is available and that asking for help will not be viewed as weakness or a lack of commitment. Training managers to recognise signs of stress and creating clear pathways to support can also encourage earlier conversations.
Focus on prevention, not just crisis support
Supporting men’s health and wellbeing at work shouldn’t only happen when someone is already struggling. Workplace initiatives around sleep, knowing your key numbers, nutrition, cancer awareness and mental health can help employees understand their health and take preventative action. Keep the messaging practical, relevant and free from judgement.
Supporting Men’s Health in the Workplace
There is no single initiative that will transform men’s health at work. The most effective approach is creating a workplace culture where looking after your physical and mental health is normal, supported and compatible with doing a good job.
Small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference.
We’d love to help you shape your Men’s Health campaign – get in touch here.
References
- Seidler, Z. E. *et al.* (2016). The role of masculinity in men’s help-seeking for depression: A systematic review. *Clinical Psychology Review*, 49, 106–118.
- Harvey, S. B. *et al.* (2017). Can work make you mentally ill? A systematic meta-review of work-related risk factors for common mental health problems. *Occupational and Environmental Medicine*, 74(4), 301–310.
- World Health Organization. *Physical activity*.
