By Dr. Will Carter | The People’s Doctor
June is recognized as Men’s Health Month. It serves as a reminder that men’s health extends far beyond annual checkups and routine screenings. It includes mental health, emotional well-being, spiritual health, physical health, and the relationships that shape our lives.
Far too often, men do not take the time to take care of themselves. We put work first. We put our families first. We put responsibilities first. Somewhere along the way, many of us learned that our own health could wait. Unfortunately, waiting often comes at a cost.
It has become normalized for men to always appear strong, to never complain, or to suppress their feelings. Many boys grow into men hearing phrases like, “Man up,” “Be tough,” or “Don’t cry.” While resilience is important, suppressing emotions is not the same as being resilient.
Stress that is never addressed does not simply disappear. Instead, it often finds another way to make itself known. It can contribute to anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, poor sleep, unhealthy coping behaviors, strained relationships, and an overall decline in quality of life. The body has a way of keeping score, even when the mind tries to ignore what it is carrying.
Despite what some may believe, men feel too.
We experience disappointment. We grieve. We worry about providing for our families. We question whether we’re doing enough as fathers, husbands, sons, brothers, friends, and leaders. We experience fear, uncertainty, loneliness, and loss. The difference is that many men have been conditioned to carry those emotions privately rather than talk about them.
As a physician, I have seen firsthand how untreated stress and delayed healthcare can affect lives. As someone who works in public and population health, I also recognize that improving men’s health requires more than simply encouraging men to schedule a doctor’s appointment. We also have to create environments where men feel comfortable asking for help without fear of being judged or viewed as weak.
Taking care of yourself is not selfish. It is responsible.
Schedule the doctor’s appointment. Get your blood pressure checked. Know your numbers. Exercise. Get adequate sleep. Spend time in prayer or reflection if your faith is important to you. Talk with someone you trust. Check in on your friends, and don’t be afraid to answer honestly when someone asks how you’re doing.
Strength is not found in pretending everything is okay. Sometimes strength is found in saying, “I’m not okay,” and allowing someone to walk alongside you.
As Men’s Health Month comes to a close, I encourage every man reading this to remember that your health matters. Your life has value. The people who love you need you healthy—not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Because the truth is simple:
Men feel too. And men deserve the opportunity, support, and space to heal too.
Stay Well,
Dr. Carter
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider regarding any specific medical concerns.
