Rethinking men’s health for the modern man

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Each June, Men’s Health Month rolls around with predictable slogans, muscular imagery, and a barrage of reminders to “get checked” and “stay fit”.

While these are vital messages, they often only scratch the surface. This year, we need a shift, a deeper, more honest look at what ‘health’ really means for men in 2025.

Despite increasing conversations around mental health, many men still suffer in silence. Depression, anxiety, and burnout are rampant; yet these are often disguised as anger, overwork, or emotional numbness. Traditional masculinity teaches suppression rather than expression. “Man up” is still a common response to emotional vulnerability.

We must reframe emotional intelligence and therapy not as weaknesses, but as strengths, tools of self-mastery and resilience. Seeking help is not a fallback; it is a forward step.

Strength is not just about bench presses and six-packs; it is about the courage to confront trauma, the discipline to maintain balance, and the wisdom to know when to rest. Men are conditioned to define health by stamina and physical dominance. But what about healthy relationships? Or fatherhood? Or work-life integration?

NEW METRICS OF MASCULINITY

This month, let us redefine strength to include showing up for your children emotionally, listening actively to your partner, or taking a mental health day without guilt. These are the new metrics of masculinity.

Too often, Men’s Health Month centres urban, middle-class, able-bodied men. But what of the farmer in rural St. Elizabeth who has not seen a doctor in five years? Or the construction worker battling hypertension and job insecurity?

Men’s health must include conversations about access, equity, and inclusion. Cultural norms, income disparities, and systemic inequalities directly affect men’s ability to prioritise and receive adequate health care. Men’s diets are often reduced to meat, more meat, and protein shakes. But nutrition is holistic. Gut health, hydration, micronutrients, and plant-based eating deserve more space in male diets. A healthier gut can improve mood, reduce disease, and boost longevity; no dumbbell required.

Another overlooked pillar of men’s health is social connection. Loneliness is a growing epidemic among men. Studies show that adult men are less likely to maintain deep friendships compared to women.

Without meaningful connections, the risk of depression and mortality rises. This June, encourage the men in your life to check in on each other, not just with memes or sports talk, but with real, honest conversation. Friendship is not a luxury; it is life-saving.

Men’s Health Month must evolve. We need less stigma and more compassion, less bravado and more truth.

LEROY FEARON JR, J.P