Image credit: CFJC Today

By Silvia Senna

'Not just about prostates and penises'

Kamloops counsellor encourages men to open up about their mental, physical health

Nov 23, 2023 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — November is Men’s Health Awareness Month. It’s meant to draw attention to a topic men are reluctant to discuss — more so when the emphasis is mental wellbeing.

“Emotions and crying are masculine. Being able to acknowledge that you’re overwhelmed or crying, or you’re sad — those are masculine things,” said Jeff Conners, a local clinical social worker and prevention practitioner. “Then we can be honest with ourselves and be strong emotionally instead of ignoring it.”

And counseling is not the only way to find help.

“Reaching out and talking to friends. I think once you talk to someone, it could be over a beer if need be. But you realize other people are also experiencing these issues and so it provides some community,” explained Conners.

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He added that mind and body are related. The more they are connected, the better.

“Exercise is one of the best things you can do for anxiety, for depression, for our overall health. Quit smoking and drinking as much as possible, too,” he advised.

And the reason is simple, according to a Kamloops fitness coach.

“It helps men naturally produce their own testosterone, which also helps with regeneration and making you feel better, having more energy,” explained Robert Petrie, owner and head coach of F3 Fit. “More energy also helps with the mental aspect of feeling good about yourself and being a productive person in society. That’s a really important thing for men — they want to be needed.”

During this month, Kamloops Fire Rescue’s Deputy Chief Ryan Cail found his own way to bring awareness to men’s health by raising money for Movember.

“It’s an opportunity for people to share a common interest in expressing an interest for raising awareness for men’s health and creating some funds in a fun way that helps with all kinds of cancers and issues that men may have as they go through life,” said Cail.

The focus shouldn’t be just for this month. Men should take care of themselves year-round.

“Depression just doesn’t happen 9-5 during the week during November. Try to commit to a healthy lifestyle throughout the year, because you deserve it,” Conners advised.