Men’s Health Month- Easy Ways to Start Taking Better Care of Yourself

You take care of your family, your work, and everything in between – but how often do you check in on your own health? Men’s Health Month is the perfect reminder to take small steps that make a big difference in how you feel now and down the road.

Why Men’s Health Deserves Attention

Men are less likely than women to visit the doctor regularly, even when something feels off. According to the Indiana University School of Medicine, nearly 60 percent of men don’t go to the doctor unless they have a serious issue.

This means small concerns can turn into bigger problems over time. But the good news is that a few easy changes can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Start with a Checkup

One of the simplest ways to stay on top of your health is to schedule an annual checkup. Even if you feel fine, these visits can help catch issues early, before they become serious.

A basic physical usually includes checking your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight. Your doctor may also talk to you about your family history and recommend screenings based on your age and lifestyle.

Know the Screenings That Matter

As you get older, there are specific health screenings that can help catch issues early:

• Blood pressure checks – High blood pressure often has no symptoms
• Cholesterol and blood sugar tests – Important for heart and metabolic health
• Colon cancer screenings – Recommended starting at age 45
• Prostate health checks – Especially for men over 50, or earlier if there’s a family history

If you’re not sure what you need, ask your provider during your next visit.

Move More, Sit Less

You don’t have to train for a marathon to improve your health. Just 30 minutes of moderate activity a day – like brisk walking, biking, or yard work – can help reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even depression.

If you sit for long hours at work, get up and stretch every hour. A short walk or quick stretch break can do wonders for your body and mind.

Eat for Energy and Prevention

You don’t have to follow a strict diet to eat better. Focus on simple swaps that add up over time:

• Choose water over soda
• Add vegetables or a salad to at least one meal a day
• Pick lean protein like chicken, fish, or beans
• Cut back on processed snacks and salty foods

These small changes can improve energy levels, support a healthy weight, and reduce your risk of chronic conditions.

Manage Stress Before It Builds Up

Life is busy, and it’s easy to ignore stress until it shows up as trouble sleeping, fatigue, or even physical pain. Learning to manage stress is key to overall health.

Simple ways to reduce stress include:

• Deep breathing or short mindfulness exercises
• Talking to someone you trust – whether it’s a friend, family member, or professional

If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Many men are quick to brush off symptoms, thinking they’ll go away on their own. But some warning signs should never be ignored, including:

• Chest pain or pressure

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut – and get it checked out. Quick action can save time, stress, and sometimes even your life.

When to Visit the ER

While many health concerns can be handled by a primary care provider, certain symptoms need immediate attention. These include:

• Severe chest or abdominal pain
• Signs of a stroke, such as sudden confusion, numbness, or slurred speech

Physicians Premier is here for you when minutes matter. Our freestanding ERs are open 24/7 and offer the same level of care as a hospital emergency room, without the long wait.

Small Steps, Big Difference

Men’s Health Month is a great time to focus on yourself – whether it’s scheduling a checkup, making better food choices, or simply moving a bit more each day. These small steps add up to a healthier, more energetic version of you.

To learn more about how Physicians Premier can support your health, anytime you need us, visit our services page. We’re here to help you and your family stay well, all year long.

Sources
Indiana University School of Medicine – Men’s Health Month: Five things to know
https://medicine.iu.edu/blogs/spirit-of-medicine/mens-health-month  
American Cancer Society – Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/screening-tests-used.html
CDC – Physical Activity Basics
https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/index.htm