GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — June is Men’s Health Month, and it’s no secret that men face societal expectations that can affect their health attitudes and behaviors.
A 2023 Cleveland Clinic survey found that 65% of men said they were hesitant to seek help for stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
While the majority of American men consider themselves to live a healthy lifestyle, 44% don’t get an annual medical checkup, 44% don’t prioritize their mental health, and 49% don’t maintain a healthy diet.
The same survey found that 83% of men had experienced stress in the past six months, but most were hesitant to seek professional help.
Dr. James Grant, chief medical officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, appeared on FOX 17 Weekend Morning News to discuss why men should have the right to prioritize their health and the importance of being transparent about their mental and physical health concerns.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the top 10 causes of death in men are:
| Rank | disease | percent |
|---|---|---|
| 1) | Heart disease | 24.3% |
| 2) | cancer | 21.6% |
| 3) | Accidental injury | 7.4% |
| Four) | Chronic lower respiratory tract disease | 5.2% |
| Five) | stroke | 4.3% |
| 6) | Diabetes | 3.3% |
| 7) | Alzheimer’s disease | 2.6% |
| 8) | suicide | 2.6% |
| 9) | Influenza and pneumonia | 2.0% |
| Ten) | Chronic Liver Disease and Cirrhosis | 1.9% |
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, there are many support resources available. Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 24/7 or chat online.
