For this year’s Men’s Health Week, it’s time to talk about something many Australian men quietly struggle with – putting off a visit to the doctor.
This year’s theme, ‘From hesitation to action’, is a reminder that early action can prevent serious health issues down the track.
The statistics paint a clear picture:
- Australian men live, on average, 4.2 years less than women.
- Suicide is the leading cause of death for men aged 15 to 44, and the third-leading cause for those aged 45 to 64.
- Men are more likely to die from preventable causes, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, often due to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Despite these risks, around two-thirds of men delay seeing a GP when they notice something might be wrong.
Why do men delay?
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around two-thirds of men delay seeing a GP when they notice something might be wrong.
Instead, they try to tough it out, self-manage, or wait until the issue becomes too serious to ignore.
This hesitation is often driven by:
- Cultural expectations: Many men feel pressure to appear strong and self-reliant.
- Fear of bad news: Some avoid the doctor because they’re afraid of what they might hear.
- Time constraints: Busy work schedules and limited clinic hours make it hard to prioritise appointments.
- Misinformation: From gym myths to old-school remedies, men are often surrounded by unreliable advice.
Case study: A missed opportunity
A 2023 evaluation of the Male Health Initiative by Urbis highlighted a case where a 42-year-old tradesman ignored persistent fatigue and chest discomfort for months.
He blamed it on stress and poor sleep.
It wasn’t until a workplace health check flagged high blood pressure and cholesterol that he finally saw a GP.
He was later diagnosed with early-stage heart disease.
With earlier intervention, lifestyle changes and medication could have started sooner, potentially avoiding long-term damage.
This case is not unique.
The report found many men delay care until symptoms interfere with work or daily life.
The evaluation also noted men responded positively to health messaging that was practical, non-judgmental, and delivered in familiar settings like workplaces or community groups.
What leaders can do
If you’re a manager or team leader, you can play a key role in shifting this behaviour.
Here are some ways to support the men in your workplace:
Start the conversation
Talk openly about health and normalise regular check-ups.
When leaders share their own experiences, it helps break down stigma.
Make time for health
Encourage staff to attend medical appointments and consider offering flexible hours to make it easier.
Share trusted resources
Point your team to reliable sources like Healthy Male, Men’s Health Week, or Healthdirect.
Bring health into the workplace
Host a health talk, offer flu shots, or partner with a local GP for on-site check-ups.
Be approachable
Sometimes a simple ‘How are you going?’ can open the door to a deeper conversation.
Listen without judgment and encourage action.
Men’s Health Week is more than a campaign
It’s a chance to change behaviours and save lives.
Whether you’re a bloke who’s been putting off that check-up or a leader looking to make a difference, now is the time to act.
Are you putting off a GP visit?
If you’re still on the fence about booking an appointment, here’s some practical tips to help you focus on your health for Men’s Health Week and beyond.
1. Reframe the visit as strength, not weakness
According to Beyond Blue, many men avoid seeking help because they fear being seen as weak.
But taking action early is actually a sign of strength.
It shows responsibility, courage, and a commitment to staying well for yourself and those who rely on you.
2. Use a ‘health buddy’ system
MensLine Australia suggests that men who struggle to take the first step can benefit from accountability.
Ask a mate, partner, or colleague to check in with you about your health goals or even book appointments together.
3. Start small – even a phone call counts
If going to the GP feels like too much, start with a phone or telehealth appointment.
It’s a low-pressure way to begin the conversation and can often lead to more confidence in taking the next step.
4. Learn the signs when something’s not right
Many men don’t realise they’re experiencing symptoms of physical or mental health issues.
MensLine Australia highlights that recognising early signs, like changes in sleep, appetite, energy, or mood, can help you act before things escalate.
5. Schedule check-ups like car servicing
You wouldn’t skip a car service for years so why do it with your body?
Treat your health like maintenance.
Book annual check-ups and put them in your calendar like any other important appointment.
6. Use workplace health programs
If your workplace offers health checks, EAP services, or mental health days, use them.
These programs are designed to make it easier for you to take care of yourself without disrupting your work life.
Further reading
- Men’s health – Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
- Important to bust the myth that men don’t care about health – Healthy Male
- Engaging men in primary healthcare services – Healthy Male
- Men’s mental health – Beyond Blue
- Men’s mental health: common challenges – MensLine Australia
