One well-known Australian athlete is using his platform to promote this Men’s Health Week, 15-21 June.
Olympic gold medallist Michael Klim has kicked plenty of goals in and out of the pool, including developing his own skincare brand, KLIM.
In honour of Men’s Health Week, the skincare brand will be offering 50% off its products while also running an Instagram campaign featuring a range of health experts to talk throughout the week.
Klim said it was a great opportunity to put a spotlight on the complexity of men’s health.
“There is still such a stigma and barrier for men to come forward and express themselves and their health,” he said.
“It’s a great time to raise awareness and make sure men are speaking up about their health and how they are feeling.
“We won’t only be talking about physical health, but the whole package of mental and spiritual health as well.”
Throughout the week, the KLIM Instagram page will feature nutritionist Danny Kennedy, holistic life coach Stuart Watkins and personal trainer Matt Fox, educating in their fields.
Klim said he hoped that his male audience took the opportunity to educate themselves on all aspects of health.
“I think everyone has different strengths and weaknesses in their daily routine and lifestyle and it’s just about educating across the board,” he said.
“Wellbeing is the core of our brand so we will continue to evolve and educate ourselves and our audience.”
Many other organisations will be rallying around Men’s Health Week, as the Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre (MHIRC) at the Western Sydney University is encouraging the public to support one another virtually.
MHIRC Director Dr Neil Hall is encouraging people to check-in with loved ones this week, saying studies show men are experiencing heightened stress due to isolation and unemployment.
“This Men’s Health Week, we are asking people to check in with the men in their lives – pick up the phone, send a text or get together online – to start an important conversation, and to share vital support and health information,” Hall said.
“Everybody has a father, son, brother, partner, mentor, friend or colleague who would benefit from positive support. Sometimes men have less opportunity to seek out support and may have difficulty voicing their issues.
“By communities working together – people of all genders, cultures and ages – we can start to address these issues and improve health outcomes.”
The Centre will also use this time to raise awareness for male suicide, as statistics show males account for six out of every eight people taking their lives.
The Federal Government have also committed $23 million to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia this week, to place additional specialist prostate nurses in over 40 locations.
