Men’s mental health and addiction are deeply connected, yet many men struggle in silence due to stigma and cultural expectations. This blog explores the unique mental health challenges men face, the link between untreated mental health conditions and substance use, and the barriers that prevent men from seeking help. Highlighting the work of Men’s Health Network and Northern Illinois Recovery Center, it underscores the importance of male-focused, evidence-based treatment, education, and community support in breaking the silence and helping men begin the path toward recovery and long-term wellness.Continue reading
Tag: men’s wellness
Beyond “Man Up”: Confronting the Hidden Crisis in Men’s Mental Health
This blog examines why men’s mental health is often overlooked and how societal expectations and media stereotypes pressure men to hide their emotions. Many men struggle silently due to norms like “boys don’t cry,” leading to difficulty expressing feelings and avoiding help. Through personal insight and real stories, the blog highlights the power of vulnerability and the need for empathy, open conversations, and support. It encourages readers to help create a culture where men feel safe to speak up and seek care.Continue reading
Men’s GI Health: Conditions to Be Aware of and How to Prevent
Men often overlook GI health, but digestive issues can affect overall wellness and may signal serious conditions like IBD, GERD, liver disease, or colorectal cancer. Key warning signs include persistent abdominal pain, bowel changes, unexplained weight loss, and blood in the stool. Prevention centers on a healthy diet, exercise, limiting alcohol, avoiding smoking, and managing stress. Routine screenings—especially colonoscopies starting at age 45—are essential. Early detection and healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk of serious GI disease.Continue reading
Reclaiming Masculinity: The Courage to Be Whole
In Reclaiming Masculinity: The Courage to Be Whole, Men’s Health Network spotlights the work of Dr. David P. Jachim, a psychoanalyst and MHN Advisory Board member whose book Men at the Brink: Masculinity in the 21st Century explores how modern narratives have distorted society’s view of manhood. Dr. Jachim examines the emotional and cultural costs of labeling masculinity as “toxic,” while calling for men to reclaim the virtues of courage, compassion, and integrity. Through empathy, self-care, and brotherhood, men can resist alienation and redefine strength in ways that heal, not harm. This reflection offers a powerful reminder: masculinity is not the problem—misunderstanding it is.Continue reading
Honoring Leadership, Legacy, and the Future of Men’s Health: Celebrating the Inaugural Jimmy Boyd Memorial Award
Men’s Health Network commemorates a milestone moment in the men’s health movement with the presentation of the Inaugural Jimmy Boyd Memorial Award for Leadership in Men’s and Boys’ Health, established by the APHA Men’s Health Caucus. The award honors the legacy of Jimmy Boyd, former Executive Director of MHN’s Washington, D.C. office, whose decades of advocacy helped launch Men’s Health Week and later Men’s Health Month. Jimmy’s bold leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of men and boys continue to influence the field today. The first recipient of the award, Derek M. Griffith, PhD, was recognized for his extensive contributions to men’s health research, policy, and global leadership. In his acceptance statement, Derek reflected on Jimmy’s generosity, wisdom, and guidance—qualities that shaped many of today’s men’s health advocates. Global Action on Men’s Health (GAMH) also celebrated Derek’s recognition, noting how his leadership honors Jimmy’s legacy while advancing the movement worldwide. The blog highlights MHN’s official tribute to Jimmy Boyd, emphasizing his profound impact on policy, advocacy, mentorship, and the spirit of the men’s health movement. It also reflects on the award’s significance as a symbol of continuity—from Jimmy’s foundational work to Derek’s ongoing leadership. Together, Jimmy Boyd’s legacy and Derek Griffith’s achievements underscore the compassion, dedication, and human connection that continue to propel the men’s health movement forward.Continue reading
Why Men Ignore Sleep Apnea (And What It’s Really Costing Them)
In this Men's Health Month guest blog, sleep expert Gregory Arneaud of ISD Health Solutions explores why men often ignore sleep apnea—and the toll it takes on their health and relationships. From cultural stigma and fear of looking weak to resistance to CPAP machines, many men avoid diagnosis and treatment. Arneaud explains how untreated sleep apnea can lead to heart disease, diabetes, hormone issues, sexual dysfunction, and emotional strain. He urges men to take sleep seriously and seek help early. Ignoring the signs isn’t strength—it’s a risk. Sleep apnea is treatable, and getting help could save your health, relationships, and life.Continue reading
The Congressional Men’s Health Caucus: Congress Reaffirms National Men’s Health Week During Men’s Health Month
In recognition of Men’s Health Month 2025, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring National Men’s Health Week (June 9–15). Backed by the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus, the resolution emphasizes the importance of preventive care for men, raising awareness about critical issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and chronic disease. With men continuing to die younger and seek care less often than women, this action urges greater focus on early detection, routine health screenings, and breaking the stigma around men’s health care. Men’s Health Network encourages individuals and communities to take action and support men’s health awareness throughout the month of June.Continue reading
