Matthew Burrell N.D.
Naturopath and Neuromuscular Therapist
November is well known as ‘Movember’, the month males stop shaving the ‘MO’ to encourage focus and conversations about health issues affecting Australian men.
‘Movember’ shines a spotlight on mental health and male reproductive cancers. But more importantly, implores men to not ignore their signs and symptoms with a ‘she’ll be right mate attitude’ and to seek help when needed.
‘Movember’ looks at mental health from the male perspective, focusing on prevention, early intervention and health promotion.
Image credit: Carlon and Co
HERE ARE SOME ALARMING MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH STATISTICS FROM BEYOND BLUE:
- One in seven men will experience depression in their lifetime.
- One in five men will experience an anxiety condition in their lifetime.
- Every day in Australia, approximately seven men die by suicide.
- In 2021, an average of 6.5 men died by suicide every day across Australia. There were 2,358 suicide deaths among males.
- Suicide is the number one cause of death in males under 45
Mental health concerns arise differently in each and every individual, so it is important to understand that they may be seen as emotional, cognitive, behavioural and physical presentations which could include:
- Mood changes and mood swings
- Anxiety or depression
- Feelings of Loneliness
- Cognitive impairment including poor memory
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Withdrawal from family and friendship groups
- Drug and alcohol use
- Exhaustion or lack of energy
- Muscle/joint pain and headaches
- Appetite changes
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Reduced performance and productivity
- Breakdown of relationships
- Self-harm and behaviours
SO HOW DO WE ENCOURAGE MEN TO RECOGNISE AND TAKE ACTION?
I have witnessed a dire need for holistic and preventative care in a landscape where men’s health often takes a backseat. For this reason, I have worked with my colleagues at Claridge Naturopathics to create a holistic and comprehensive men’s health program.
Recognising the interconnected nature of well-being, we acknowledge the challenge and futility of addressing mental health in isolation. Therefore my program, not only focuses on men’s mental health, but also delves into various facets, encompassing gastrointestinal, immune, respiratory, metabolic, musculoskeletal, and reproductive health. By addressing these interconnected aspects, we can confidently strive to foster comprehensive and sustainable well-being for men.
It is my passion to empower everyone, through Neuromuscular treatments and Naturopathy, however I have developed a strong drive and focus on men’s health so that males can take control of their physical and emotional vitality.
By changing the stigma around men’s health and creating an individualised ‘renovation strategy’ that provides not only relief care, but also lays corrective foundations, we can build a solid platform for improved health for years to come.
The key to our program is a focus on education, conversation, motivation and coaching on men’s health.
HOW DO WE ACHIEVE THIS?
So, in support of Movember grow a ‘MO’ (if you are able to) and start the conversation of men’s health.
If you would like to learn more about my empowering approach to uplifting men’s health potential, or to achieve momentum for improved health for you or a loved one, please call our reception team on (03) 5221 8220 to make an appointment.
There is no better time to unite.
Matt
