November is Men's Health Awareness Month with International Men's Health Awareness Day falling on Sunday 19 November.
The aim is to raise awareness of a wide range of men's health issues from mental health to suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
Statistically men are more likely to talk to their barber than their GP about their mental health. That’s why we’re working with Mind in Bexley on an initiative to train barbers to spot the signs of anxiety and depression, to be empathetic listeners and to know which local support services they can signpost men to for help.
If you are a local barber working anywhere in Bexley and are interested in receiving free training email andrewburke@mindinbexley.org.uk.
The Bexley Crisis Café based at 2a Devonshire Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 8DS, is a safe and friendly place for anyone over 18 to go. It provides access to mental health support and advice from professionals. It is open from 6pm to 10pm, Monday to Sunday including Bank Holidays. Find out more by visiting the Mind In Bexley website.
Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health, Cllr Melvin Seymour said:
It is more important than ever that local people can easily access the information and support that they need to help them stay happy, healthy and well. Men’s Mental Health Awareness month helps to prompt men to take time to think about their health and wellbeing.
We know that men are less likely to seek help and that’s why we ‘re working with partners to deliver community-based health services like our barber shop project.”
We are also working with the NHS to increase screening rates for prostate cancer in the borough via community-based initiatives such as Prostrate Warriors. Robert Dyer is a Prostate Cancer survivor who runs Prostate Warriors at Moorings Sociable Club in Thamesmead. This offers free weekly exercise sessions for anyone recovering from prostate cancer, followed by an informal support group where the men can share their experiences.
For more information go visit the Prostrate Cancer UK website or email info@prostatewarriors.org.uk.
The NHS offers general advice and tips on how to maintain and improve your mental health at the Every Mind Matters website.