Guest Blog for International Mens Day – When Was Your Last MOT?

Guest Blog for International Mens Day – When Was Your Last MOT?

Liam from Whysup shares some reflections and top tips on International Mens Day…

Men’s Mental Health – When was your last MOT?

This month there is a huge focus on men’s health both physically and mentally. The theme is ‘time for your MOT’.

The three biggest issues facing men’s health are suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. And sadly, most could be reduced with checks and support.

I don’t claim to be a medical expert, but I do know that simple steps, checks and maintenance can help! Whether its physical or mental health I think the MOT analogy works.

A car needs to be checked, kept in good order and at times requires a professional.

I am a man in my 30’s who struggled to speak about my thoughts and feelings, developed unhealthy coping strategies and was petrified and embarrassed about talking anything through with a ‘professional’.

I thought I was weak if I struggled, didn’t want people to know my issues and had to play a role or part. I had to hit rock bottom before I learned there is a better way.

Today I live a very different life, I put my health and wellbeing first and actively do things to maintain it.

I am busy, I have a wife, 3 kids, 3 dogs, two rabbits and work a recovery programme for my addiction – but I make the time to take care of myself, I have regular conversations with people I trust and ask for help when I need it.

My top tips to all men are…

Check in regularly!

I used to struggle to talk and couldn’t explain how I felt, because I wasn’t used to doing it. I would have probably found it strange if someone asked me to sit on a couch and talk about feelings, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Create opportunity for discussion, it could be walking the dogs, a coffee, at the gym or anywhere else. Get used to talking about how you feel when things are ok and then it will be easier to do when things are tough. By doing it you will get used to recognising your feelings and more self-aware.

If you can find two key friends to do it with, you will create a ripple effect and make it easier for them too!

Maintain yourself:

Try to allow time within your day and week for you and consciously do something for your wellbeing. It could be rest, self-care, meditation, reading, gym or anything else. If you plan the time, you will be more likely to do it, if you do it regularly it will become a habit and small positive daily action will over time have a huge benefit. Have fun trying new things, make it about you and maybe make it social.

Self-care isn’t selfish and if you’re doing well so the other things and people in your life will benefit.

Get the professionals in:

There will be situations, things and issues which you may not be able to solve yourself. Whether its physical, mental or anything else if you’re feeling out of your depth, worried and it isn’t passing then be brave and ask for help. Most things will not be as bad as you think, you won’t be the first to have thew issue and they have spent time studying, getting qualified and working in the field so will in most cases have a solution far better than you can come up with.

Lastly, I would say taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be horrible, complicated or even hard work…

Enjoy it and keep your vehicle in good order so you can enjoy the drive!

Liam McBride

Founder & Director

Socials – @whysupofficial

Linked In – Whysup Ltd

Whysup are here to raise awareness and increase understanding around mental health and addiction. We actively promote and encourage good wellbeing through our work!