Conversations That Matter: Taking Care of Men

Ep 589 - Taking Care of Men Guest: Kenton Boston By Stuart McNish “Health is complex and men’s health is complicated by a variety of factors that include biology, behavioural choices and peer pressure,” says Kenton Boston, the president of the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation. According to Boston, one of the biggest challenges is a stoic mentality, he says: "'Suck it up' is a phrase all too familiar to men and it can lead to severe mental and physical health challenges.” Despite decades of efforts to change the "suck it up" narrative, stereotypes persist. Boston says, “Breaking down resistance to seeking help requires a patient consistent message, a message confirming men and their health matter to the people who love them.” Heart disease, cancer and a host of other major organ issues are concerns for both women and men. Boston notes, “However, for men, mental health and suicide are two major concerns men tend to face alone.” Stigma, judgment, masculinity norms, denial and a lack of male friendly health care are cited as reasons why men prefer to keep their mouths shut about their health. I invited Boston to join me for a Conversation That Matters about men and their well-being. You can see the interview here https://www.conversationsthatmatter.ca/ Learn more about our guests career at careersthatmatter.ca Join me for Conversations Live Immigration on Jan. 20 at 5 p.m. on The Vancouver Sun. conversationslive.ca/subscribe Subscribe to our Newsletter