IT'S Men's Health Week from June 12-18, with blokes young and old across Australia urged to take the time to enjoy the things in life that make them happy.
Hundreds of local fundraisers and special events have been organised to give men and boys the chance to engage with people and communities that help keep them healthy.
This year's theme is Healthy Body, Healthy Mind: Keeping the Balance.
"Good happens when we have a sense of balance in our lives and can juggle our obligations, while also taking time to enjoy family and friends, and most importantly ourselves," Dr Hall said.
"Taking time to pursue simple activities that bring you joy is crucial in modern life, and for this year's Men's Health Week we're urging men to take the time to think about how they're managing the different areas of their lives."
Dr Hall said being healthy was more than exercising and eating well.
"It's also about making the time to pursue the activities you enjoy, whether that's connecting with mates, going to the park with the dog or playing and watching sport."
Did you know...
- A boy born in Australia in 2010 has a life expectancy of 78 years, while a girl born at the same time could expect to live to 82.3.
- Right from the start, boys suffer more illness, more accidents and die earlier than their female counterparts.
- Men take their own lives at four times the rate of women (that's five men a day, on average).
- Accidents, cancer and heart disease account for the majority of male deaths.
What can men do to help themselves?
- Be active in getting medical help if you don't feel well, have a problem that won't go away or notice unusual symptoms.
- It's OK to seek help. Don't try to do everything on your own or bury problems. Talk to your wife, friends and workmates.
- Push hard to get the help you need to manage your life, work, family and financial needs.
- Ladies should be proactive in helping men and boys get the help they need. Use available hotlines, speak with professionals to get the best course of action - and be persistent.
- Don't leave it too late to seek help. Fear is not a killer.
More information and event details at www.menshealthweek.org.au
