Men's Mental Health: Addressing Barriers and Improving Engagement

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna De Lange is joined by Dr Hayden Cain, a GP, rural generalist and clinical ambassador for Movember's Men in Mind to discuss men’s mental health. They explore why men’s mental health is a critical issue for GPs, including the higher rates of preventable death and suicide among men, and the role of social and clinical barriers to help-seeking.

Dr Kane outlines the significance of men's mental health as a clinical issue. Despite many men engaging with healthcare providers in the year prior to suicide, barriers such as stigma, socialisation, and negative experiences remain. Dr Kane also addresses the impact of masculine stereotypes, not only for patients, but also in the unconscious bias clinicians may bring to consultations.

Alongside the impact of social media and online communities, he highlights both the risks and opportunities for engaging men, noting that men often present with physical symptoms and may have engaged with healthcare before suicide, stressing the need for vigilant, empathetic care.

Discussing practical strategies for GPs to foster connection and trust, such as asking open-ended questions, building rapport through personal interest, and providing clear pathways for ongoing care. Dr Kane also recommends resources such as the Movember Men in Mind program to support effective engagement with male patients.

Link & Resources:

Movember Men in Mind training - https://meninmind.movember.com

The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!