In light of Mental Health Awareness Week, our private doctors want to highlight the importance of talking to someone – whether that be a friend, family member, or your GP – about how you’re feeling. Sharing your thoughts can often seem like a terrifying step to take. However, doing so can have huge benefits and is often the way people get better.
Here at Linbury Doctors, we want you to know that we’re always here for you. No matter your gender, if you’re struggling with your mental health, please give your private GP a call. Find out more about becoming a member of Linbury Doctors here.
A recent report from CALM and Instagram states that over a third of men are unhappy with the way they look. Plus, nearly half struggle with their mental health due to this. CALM, which stands for Campaign Against Living Miserably, also found that two in every five (39%) men feel the pressure to have a ‘perfect’ body.
While there has been lots of talk around female body image and living up to unrealistic representations of beauty, there has been less around male body image. Due to this, CALM have launched a campaign – CALM Body Talks – to combat the issue and bring men into the conversation.
What is Body Image?
Body image is how we think or feel about our bodies. CALM’s research revealed that one in two (48%) men aged 16-40 have struggled with their body image at some stage of their lives. This constant pressure to have the ‘perfect’ body is a common narrative across many people’s lives; and this is often accentuated when social media is involved. Half of the men in the study stated that mainstream media and social networking sites were one of the main reasons why they felt negatively towards their bodies. For many, the recent national lockdowns have only accelerated this further; more time at home has meant more aimless scrolling.
What can be done?
According to the CALM study, 21% of 16–40-year-old men don’t feel comfortable talking about their bodies. However, the more we talk about mental health and bring men into the conversation, the less alone people will feel. If you’re struggling, the best thing to do is reach out to someone. Whether that be a friend, family member or your GP, talking about how you feel is the best thing to do.
Our Private Doctors
Here at Linbury Doctors, we understand that speaking up can sometimes feel like a daunting prospect. That’s why, as a member, you can call, text or email your GP directly. Your doctor will come to see you at your home at a time that suits you.
Our private doctors are experienced in general practice as well as other areas such as mental health. So, contact us to find out more about our GPs or find out more about becoming a member here.
