Why Regular Health Checks Matter – and How Speaking Up Can Save Lives

When it comes to health, men are often raised to be self-reliant. Push through the pain. Don’t make a fuss. Keep it to yourself. But while resilience can be a strength, silence can be deadly. Many men miss the early warning signs of mental distress because they’re taught to ignore them — or don’t know what to look for.

This Men’s Health Week (June 9th - 15th), we’re highlighting the vital link between physical and mental wellbeing, and why checking in — both with your GP and yourself — can change, or even save, your life.

The Body Keeps the Score

Mental health struggles don’t always present in obvious ways. Often, the first signs show up in the body:

• Constant fatigue, even after rest
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
• Digestive issues
• Low libido
• Increased use of alcohol or other coping mechanisms
• Irritability, anger, or emotional numbness

It’s easy to assume these are just signs of stress or aging. But they can be red flags that your mental wellbeing needs attention. The mind and body are deeply interconnected — and symptoms that appear physical may be rooted in emotional strain.

Regular health check-ups give you a chance to talk about these symptoms openly, and help healthcare professionals spot patterns that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Why Men Wait

According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics, men make up three-quarters of suicides. One in five men dies before the age of 65 — and many of these deaths could be prevented through earlier detection and support.

So why don’t men reach out sooner?

For some, it’s stigma — around appearing weak or vulnerable. For others, it’s a lack of emotional vocabulary. Many have simply never been taught how to name, express, or process what they’re feeling. And when you don’t have the words, it’s hard to ask for help.

There’s also a practical side: long work hours, caregiving responsibilities, or the assumption that “it’s nothing serious” can all get in the way of making that appointment or starting that conversation.

But early intervention is key. The sooner you act, the easier it is to treat both mental and physical issues — and the more likely you are to recover.

Check-ups That Go Beyond Blood Pressure

Physical health checks are often our first point of contact with healthcare — and they can be a powerful entryway into wider wellbeing.

When you speak to a GP or nurse, bring up anything that feels off. That includes fatigue, mood swings, or even gut health. These conversations can open doors to support pathways, mental health referrals, or simple lifestyle changes that have a big impact.

At MyMynd, we also recommend regular mental health assessments as part of a proactive wellbeing routine. Just as you wouldn’t wait years to check your cholesterol, you shouldn’t wait to check in on your emotional health either.

The Power of Conversation

Opening up doesn’t mean you have to bare your soul. Sometimes, just saying “I haven’t been feeling myself lately” can be enough to start a meaningful conversation.

Whether it’s with a friend, partner, line manager, or peer, talking is one of the simplest and most effective tools we have. It reduces isolation, builds trust, and allows others to support you — or even share that they’ve been struggling too.

Creating peer support spaces, particularly in male-dominated environments, can help break the stigma around mental health. These don’t need to be formal. Regular check-ins, team debriefs, or simply asking “How are you, really?” can make a big difference.

A Personal Commitment

Men’s Health Week is not just about raising awareness—it’s about taking action. And the most powerful action you can take starts with you.

• Book a health check this month—even if you feel “fine”
• Start a conversation with a man you care about
• Share your own story or insight about mental health

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to start.

One More Thing…

If you’re reading this and you’re struggling — you’re not alone. You don’t need to wait for a crisis to seek help. Whether through a GP, your organisation’s support system, or a trusted friend, there is always a way forward.

Please remember that if you are in crisis, and need to speak to someone urgently, you can call Samaritans on 116 123, the NHS Mental Health Line on 111, or text the word 'SHOUT' to 85258. These services are available 24/7 and 365 days of the year.

Other services that may be of interest include:
Andy's Man Club: Peer groups for men across the UK.

Men's Sheds Association: Community-based social connection.

Hub of Hope: National mental health support directory.

Pay What You Can Peer Support: Online peer support groups that work on any donation you can afford.

And if you're in a position to support others, check in regularly. Sometimes, the person who seems “strong” on the outside is fighting the hardest battle within.

Let’s build a culture where health checks — mental and physical — are the norm. Where men feel safe to speak, supported when they do, and stronger for it.