Rates of suicide are seven times higher among Traveller men in Ireland compared with non-Traveller men.  Several factors are implicated, including racism, social exclusion, discrimination, inadequate accommodation, unemployment, and lower educational attainment.  Systemic and cultural barriers inhibit Traveller men from seeking support.  This study addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the lived mental health experiences of Traveller men affected by suicide.  Read the article on this in the American Journal of Men's Health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10493055

In mid-December 2023, the United Kingdom Parliament produced a briefing paper which focuses upon men’s physical and mental health, and the disparities in health outcomes between men and women.  It describes key drivers for these outcomes, as well as policy approaches to improve men’s health.  A copy of their report can be downloaded at: https://post.parliament.uk/research-briefings/post-pb-0056

The HSE has produced a guide for anyone who is thinking about having their prostate checked.  See it at: http://tinyurl.com/36ndd7tm

At times, it can be obvious when someone is struggling to cope.  But, sometimes, the signs are harder to spot.  Have you seen the video that was created by Norwich City Football Club and shared to mark World Mental Health Day 2023? ...  If not, you might want to have a look at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tX8TgVR33KM

To celebrate International Men’s Day 2023, HSE Health and Wellbeing - in partnership with the Men's Health Forum in Ireland, the Men's Development Network and the National Centre for Men's Health in SETU - organised a webinar on the theme of 'Men Making a Difference'.  At this event (on Thursday 16th November 2023), a wide range of men from across the island of Ireland (John Wall, Noel Richardson, Eoin Kernan, Laurence Gaughan, Steven O'Connell and Kevin Duggan) spoke about their passion for men's health and wellbeing, and the range of interventions and issues that they are involved in.  You can see a recording of this inspirational discussion at: https://youtu.be/728xivevYXM

‘Movember’ has partnered with the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) to roll-out 'Ahead of the Game' - an evidence-based emotional literacy programme designed for delivery in a sports club setting.  This initiative will enable young players, their parents and coaches to better understand mental health, build mental fitness, and strengthen resilience to deal with challenges in sport and life through a series of interactive workshops.  Find out more at: http://tinyurl.com/muahzvtx

Paul Doran was diagnosed with head and neck cancer.  In this podcast, from Belfast Men’s Health Group, he talks about his journey from being diagnosed, to his treatment, and through to his recovery.  See: https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-xfk6t-150efaa

Regular physical activity can help older people maintain and improve their mental health and cognitive ability, delay the onset of dementia, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.  It can also improve other functional abilities, including physical function and balance, thereby preventing falls and fall-related injuries.  Being physically active helps to prevent heart disease and cancer, and to prevent and manage chronic conditions such as Type-2 diabetes and hypertension.  Just as importantly, physical activity brings social benefits - as being active offers the chance to build relationships and strengthen networks; enabling continued contribution to society.  The World Health Organisation has recently produced a ‘Toolkit for Action’ to help to increase the proportion of older people participating in physical activity.  See it at: https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/373332/9789240076648-eng.pdf