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By Olivia Sanchez
Observed in June, Men’s Health Month motivates fathers to model healthier lifestyles and pursue preventive healthcare.
This month raises consciousness for more men to emphasize their general health— both physically and mentally. According to the Indiana University School of Medicine, most men often overlook the significance of their health. Merely 60 percent visit a physician for an annual, routine examination, while 40 percent delay until a serious issue arises.
Men are advised to undergo a physical examination at least once every year. For fitness, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise weekly.
Men’s mental well-being has gained heightened attention recently. Generally speaking, males face anxiety or depression daily yet are reluctant to confide in others. According to a report by the American Psychological Association, 31 percent of men will experience depression at some stage in their lives, with nine percent reporting daily feelings of depression or anxiety. Nevertheless, only 25 percent seek help from a mental health specialist.
In a family context, men’s health influences everyone around them.
Dr. Kristen Greene from Florida State University is the head of the FSU Center for Couple and Family Therapy at the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. She specializes in mental health issues and how families can navigate mental health obstacles.
Greene’s studies highlight the significant effect men’s mental health has on family dynamics.
“In the family unit, every individual influences the others, and men’s mental wellness, whether supported or ignored, can reverberate through the entire family structure,” Greene noted. “When a man is burdened by unvoiced anxiety, grief, or fatigue, those unspoken feelings often manifest through his actions, perhaps in the form of withdrawal, irritability, or silence. Families may sense discomfort without understanding its origin and might begin to create their own interpretations of what that silence signifies.”
Michael Ormsbee, director of the FSU Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine, focuses on research pertaining to exercise training and nutritional strategies. He believes men should never underestimate the importance of monitoring their health, even if they feel fit.
“Neglecting your annual screenings might not appear significant — particularly if you feel well — but it’s one of the simplest ways to overlook something that could affect your health later on,” Ormsbee mentioned. “One of the primary reasons I stress early and consistent checkups is so you can establish a personal baseline. You want to get tested when you feel your best. This provides a clear perspective on what ‘optimal’ looks like for you in terms of blood biomarkers, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, sleep, nutritional status, and general wellness.”
Media inquiries about men’s mental health can reach Professor Greene at [email protected].
Media inquiries regarding men’s physical health can be directed to Professor Ormsbee at [email protected].
Kristen Greene, director of the Center for Couple and Family Therapy, Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
What advice do you have for men to assist them in taking better care of their mental health?
“According to the National Institute of Mental Health, only 35% of men experiencing a mental health disorder pursued professional treatment last year, compared to 54% of women. The gap is even more significant for men aged 18-29, with only 20% seeking help. There are numerous reasons for this disparity, many stemming from sociocultural messages. Prioritizing mental health is equally important for men, regardless of whether seeking professional assistance is a possibility.”
“One useful practice is to pause and explore your inner landscape. Pose queries such as, ‘What am I carrying at this moment? Who or what has influenced my reactions to stress?’ Journaling or even candid discussions with trusted friends can assist in revealing the narratives that shape your mental health. Establish small caring rituals. This could involve taking a peaceful walk to reflect on the day, or intentionally processing the day during the commute home from work. Declining requests that conflict with your values, or setting aside time to check in with your emotional state. These aren’t merely self-care routines; they are actions of reclaiming your essence.”
What positive effects may arise when men prioritize their mental health?
“When men start to articulate their emotions, seek help, and create space for their mental wellness, they present a powerful counter-narrative. They demonstrate that it’s feasible to feel and remain grounded, to face challenges while still leading, to love without the need for control. This transforms not only their personal journey but also enhances the emotional awareness of the entire family.
“I often tell the men I support that when you attend to your mental health, you’re not just caring for yourself; you are disrupting cycles, healing generational traumas, and modeling something new for those you cherish most.”
Michael Ormsbee, director of the Institute of Sports Sciences & Medicine, Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Do men’s particular nutritional needs differ from those of women?
“Yes, but perhaps not in the oversimplified manner often seen online. I generally view nutrition in relation to individual goals—whether that pertains to body composition, strength, endurance, or overall wellness—rather than just gender. That said, men typically possess more lean mass and a larger body size, which means they often require more overall calories and protein to maintain muscle, support energy needs, and enhance performance. Hormones such as testosterone do play a role, but they are just one of many factors that affect how men respond to various training or dietary approaches. Ultimately, the greatest advantage comes from knowing your own metrics. If you feel good on a specific diet, with or without certain foods, pay attention to that! That’s how you create a nutrition plan that truly suits you, rather than merely your gender. You must select a plan that is realistic over the long term. If you believe you cannot sustain something indefinitely, then you should refine your approach.”
The post Florida State University experts available for interviews on Men’s Health Month appeared first on Florida State University News.
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