We’re told that one in 4 people will experience mental health issues at some point in their life and we blokes are clearly not exempt from this. From sportsmen to actors to royalty and so on, more and more is being reported about men’s struggles and the vital need for good mental health.
Depression with its multiple causes and symptoms can afflict anyone at any time. As one who experienced clinical depression some 30 years ago, I know.
Despite the rise in mental health awareness in the UK, suicide is the highest cause of death among men under the age 45. In fact, the highest suicide rate in the UK is recorded for men aged 40–44. Male rates are higher than female suicide rates, and one reason for this is that men are less likely to ask for help or express depressive or suicidal feelings.
Admitting you need help is not a weakness – it shows both strength and wisdom. If you are facing a crisis, if your thoughts are getting out of control and you feel you are ‘losing it’, then I would urge and implore you to seek professional help. Tell your GP or speak to a trusted friend. It won’t shock them, but it could truly help you.
As well as the medical assistance that I gladly received I also experienced God’s profound healing. My own testimony is that God accompanies us in the darkest times as well as the good ones.
Prostate Cancer Awareness
Most football managers are wearing the Prostate Cancer Awareness badge these days. As men get older they experience more frequent trips to the loo, not least at night. If you are experiencing this problem do please get it checked out. It does not mean you have cancer. A man’s prostate enlarges with age putting pressing on the urethra. If you are worried about this speak to your GP. Follow this Link Prostrate Cancer UK
A simple PSA blood test can also be carried out. PSA stands for prostate specific antigen which is a marker in the blood that can indicate something more sinister if it’s a high reading. There are treatments for an enlarged prostate and of course many different treatments for prostate cancer. As with any cancer, the sooner it’s detected the better. As one who suffered from prostate cancer myself, I again would urge you not to delay speaking to your GP if you are worried about this.
Having also worked as full-time hospital chaplain, I have no qualms in talking about what I have written on this page if you would like to contact me for a chat.
You might find the link useful too State of Mind
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