Men’s Health Awareness Month: Breaking silence and encouraging action

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – June marks Men’s Health Awareness Month, a national observance aimed at raising awareness about the health challenges men face—and encouraging early detection, treatment, and open conversation.

Yet, despite ongoing efforts, men’s health is still not talked about enough.

Studies show that men are less likely than women to schedule routine doctor visits, including annual checkups.

Because of this, critical conditions—from heart disease to depression—often go undetected until it’s too late.

Doctors recommend annual physicals, mental health screenings, and more open discussions about wellness as essential steps in preventing long-term complications.

“As far as Men’s Health Month, it’s really a big push for folks—especially senior men—to get checked up for things they aren’t generally looked at for,” said Dr. Ethan Matz, a urologist at Erlanger. “Things like mental health, prostate cancer, men’s sexual health… So it’s a big push on our part for those checkups, for those processes in June.”

Dr. Matz also addressed one of the biggest barriers to men’s health: the stigma surrounding it.

“It’s stigma, you know? I think as men age—or they grow up—people tell them that it’s not okay to talk about feelings. It’s not okay to talk about their health or health processes,” he said. “If we can start undoing that shared thought process, that shared mental model, while men are younger, I think we’ll probably end up treating them a lot better.”

Nick DeLuca, a young advocate for men’s health, shares that the battle is not just physical—but also deeply emotional.

“I just want people to know that asking for help with whatever condition you’re suffering from—physical or mental—is not a sign of weakness,” he said. “In fact, it’s a sign of strength, a sign of maturity, and a sign of initiative. You’re willing to take those extra steps to help remedy—or live with—whatever condition you’re dealing with.”

DeLuca has personally faced mental health struggles and says seeking help made all the difference.

“In high school, I was picked on. In college, I really struggled with moving away from home for the first time. And just a few months ago, I was unfortunately laid off from my job,” he shared. “But I promise you—if you ask for help, it will help you. And it does work.”

As Men’s Health Month continues, physicians and advocates alike are urging men of all ages to step up and speak out.

Whether it’s scheduling a routine checkup, opening up about emotional struggles, or learning more about preventive care—taking action now could save a life.

From diabetes and heart disease to anxiety and depression, many conditions affecting men go undetected until the damage is done.

But with awareness, education, and courage, change is possible.

Click here to learn more about men’s health resources.