It’s a well-known issue, men avoiding the doctor, but why does this reluctance persist in 2024 despite increasing awareness?
Mental health expert Dr Paul Wallang, Consultant Psychiatrist at Cardinal Clinic Mental Health Hospital delves deeper into the issue and reveals the five main reasons men avoid the GP. A recent study by Nuffield Health found that 65% of men avoid seeking medical help for as long as possible. This reluctance can have serious consequences. Failing to address health issues early could lead to more severe conditions down the road. In fact, men who don’t regularly visit the doctor face an increased risk of heart disease, undiagnosed cancers, and increased mental health conditions.
1. Reluctance to appear vulnerable
“From a young age, men are often conditioned to be self-reliant and strong.” This can lead to men believing asking for medical help is a sign of weakness, so they are less likely to admit when they need support.” As a result, many men are reluctant to admit they need support, instead bottling up emotions or downplaying issues like anxiety or depression.
2. Fear of bad news
The fear of receiving a serious diagnosis is another major deterrent. Whether it’s cancer, heart disease, or a mental health disorder, it’s a major barrier. “Many men assume that if they don’t visit the GP, they can’t be told something is wrong, therefore avoiding bad news.” Unfortunately, this denial often results in men only seeking help when conditions are more advanced, making early detection less likely. This is particularly concerning for issues like prostate cancer, where the 5-year survival rate is nearly 100% if caught early. Delaying medical attention can allow conditions to worsen, limiting treatment options for physical ailments and reducing the chances of effective mental health interventions.
3. Lack of time or prioritisation
Busy lifestyles and demanding work schedules also play a role. “Men often place work or personal commitments ahead of their health, both physically and mentally.” explains Dr Wallang. With 40% of men working more than 40 hours a week, this leaves little time to focus on their health. “It’s not uncommon for men to delay seeing a doctor until their symptoms are severe, believing that they don’t have time for an appointment.”
4. Embarrassment or discomfort
Many men feel uncomfortable with physical examinations, particularly those involving intimate areas or sensitive health issues like mental or sexual health. “There is still a stigma around men’s health which can prevent them from seeking help.” Ryan, 25, who works as a Customer Service Advisor, went to his GP with anxiety “I felt quite uncomfortable about approaching my GP because I have a mindset that with physical health it’s clear you cannot fix yourself, whereas with mental health there’s the misconception that the solutions are in your own mind.” “It was difficult sharing something very emotive with the GP, and I didn’t want to medicalise every aspect of my life, I just wanted to keep some things private.”
5. Overconfidence in health
Men often believe that if they are feeling generally well, they don’t need a GP visit. “This overconfidence leads to neglecting regular check-ups and dismissing symptoms that could be early signs of larger health issues.” Whether it’s missing early signs of conditions like cancer, or underestimating chronic stress, this attitude leads to missed opportunities for prevention and early treatment.
Breaking down the stigma around men’s health is essential to changing these dangerous behaviours. Failing to seek help has severe consequences – men account for three-quarters of suicides in the UK, and many struggle in silence with mental health issues that go untreated. When it comes to physical health, delays in seeking medical attention can result in advanced conditions, reduced treatment options, and poorer long-term outcomes.
For example, early detection of illnesses like cancer dramatically improves survival rates, but too often, men wait until it’s too late.
By normalising conversations about both physical and mental well-being and encouraging men to seek help without fear or shame, we aim to see more men taking proactive steps to protect their wellbeing- before it’s too late.
If you would like to learn more and enquire about mental health care at Cardinal Clinic, you can call us on 01753 869755. Alternatively, if you wish to refer yourself for mental health care, you can complete our self referral form.
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