Call for men to look after their mental health

A NHS trust is calling on men to look after their mental health during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW) is encouraging men to talk about their mental health in support of Men’s Health Week, which runs until June 21.

Men’s Health Week, run by the Men’s Health Forum, raises awareness of the health issues that affect men disproportionately.

As it has been found that men are twice more likely to die from COVID-19 than females, this year’s theme is “Take Action on Covid-19”.

Men’s Health Forum has called on men, employers and the government to take steps to prevent the virus from doing more damage.

Clinical psychologist Dr Nicholas Hudson said: “My COVID-19 story is not one characterised by ill health, financial difficulty, or loss of loved ones.

“Like many others, I have experienced the looming existential dread and the queasy feeling watching the news or opening notifications on my phone.

“I put a lot of pressure on myself to look after others.

“The weight of care and wearing all those different hats each with their own pressures.

“If I could promote any message to the men out there during Men’s Health Week, I would say be compassionate to you.

“Find that part of yourself where you are kind to others, and turn it inward. Take a break, try and find that fulfilment.

“It’s okay to admit that times are hard, stressful, and you’re struggling. You most certainly aren’t alone.”