As men, fathers, sons, and husbands, we often carry the heavy weight of responsibility on our shoulders, tasked with providing, protecting, and persevering. From a young age, society conditions men to be strong, self-reliant, and seemingly invulnerable. In the process, self-care is frequently pushed aside, seen as secondary to family obligations or career success. But the truth is vital and straightforward: the first step to caring for others is caring for yourself.

June is Men’s Health Month, a national observance that emphasizes the importance of men’s health and encourages men and boys to take proactive steps toward better physical and mental wellness. It is a perfect time to raise awareness of preventable health problems, enable early detection and treatment, and empower men to make healthier choices that lead to longer, happier lives.

Understanding the importance of men’s health goes beyond physical fitness. It is about recognizing the societal, emotional, and psychological burdens men face and actively working to reduce them. Why do we need health awareness? Because many men’s health issues go undetected or untreated for too long. Stigma, traditional gender norms, and a tendency to “tough it out” all contribute to poor health outcomes.

Men’s health statistics tell a concerning story:

These facts highlight the urgent need for awareness, routine checkups, and the normalization of preventive care for men.

Today, men’s mental health remains a critical and often overlooked area of concern. Many men feel pressure to suppress emotions, maintain a stoic front, and avoid seeking help even when it’s desperately needed. This contributes to higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide among men.

During Men’s Health Month, we must challenge outdated perceptions of masculinity. It is time to:

Healthy men are not just physically fit; they are emotionally and mentally well, too. Promoting men’s mental health is just as vital as promoting exercise and nutrition.

Preventive care saves lives. It is that simple. Yet many men delay or avoid doctor visits until a problem becomes unavoidable. This approach can lead to late diagnoses of severe conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

During Men’s Health Month, men are encouraged to:

Preventing illness through exercise, diet, and regular screenings allows men to take control of their health, spot problems early, and increase their chances of effective treatment.

Understanding the leading causes of illness and death among men is key to early prevention. Common men’s health issues include:

These conditions show why regular doctor visits, lifestyle changes, and mental health support are essential to men’s health and well-being.

When chronic illness progresses to an advanced stage, hospice care becomes an essential aspect of support. For many men, hospice care provides dignity, comfort, and control during the final chapter of life. It is not about giving up but about enhancing the quality of life when a cure is no longer possible.

The role of hospice in men’s health includes:

At Ascend Hospice Care, we recognize that men often face emotional barriers even in their final days. That’s why our interdisciplinary team, including nurses, doctors, social workers, and chaplains, offers compassionate care that respects the patient’s values, encourages honest dialogue, and promotes peace at the end of life.

Hospice is not about death but about making every moment count.

So what can we do this June?

June is Men’s Health Month, so let’s transform it into more than just a calendar reminder. Let it be a catalyst for change.

Healthy men are the backbone of strong families and thriving communities. Whether it is taking that first step toward therapy, finally making an appointment with a doctor, or choosing a salad over fries, every decision counts. Men’s Health Month challenges us all to think differently, act boldly, and support the men and boys in our lives on their journey to wellness.

This month, let’s remember the men who are still fighting, the ones who have finished their battle, and the families who stand beside them. Let’s commit to building a world where men’s health is prioritized and self-care is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

At Ascend Hospice Care, we are here to provide compassionate, comprehensive care for men at all stages of life, from education and prevention to end-of-life support. If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, we invite you to learn more about how hospice care can make a meaningful difference.