International Men’s Day

International Men’s Day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating men’s contributions, and it is observed on November 19th around the world. It is the perfect date to focus on men’s health! The World Health Organization publishes concerning statistics that suicide is one of the major causes of male deaths.

History

The reasons for suicide are multifaceted and can range from gender roles to social pressure to role models. While women also struggle with suicidal ideation, it is more likely that men will take their own lives. From a young age, boys are taught not to express their emotions, leading to men masking their pain from others.

Since 1999, International Men’s Day has been with various events, forums, conferences, peaceful marches, and exhibitions across many countries. The day was revived and popularized by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago in 1999, with a mission to involve society in discussing topical issues.

Interesting facts

Did you know that men:

• Have better developed tunnel vision.
• Have more blood volume than women.
• Have an average of only 12% body fat.
• Have skin 0.2mm thicker than that of women.
• Have their brain’s electrical activity drop by 70% during sleep.
• Have fewer taste buds than women.
• Are less receptive to high-frequency sounds.
• Have a less developed sense of smell.

How to take part

This International Men’s Day, reach out to a colleague, friend, or brother to tell them that you appreciate and love them for who they are. Invite them for a cup of coffee, make a delicious dinner, organize an interesting trip, and take the time to find out about their problems and try to help.

When is International Men’s Day in 2024?

International Men’s Day is observed on November 19 each year.

Observations