Breaking the Stigma: Men Seeking Healthcare

Breaking the Stigma: Men Seeking Healthcare, Ep 352, May 9, 2025

Real Men and Real Health: Overcoming the Reluctance to Seek Medical Help

Summary 
In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant, an author, coach, and healer, shares his personal experience with an umbilical hernia surgery. He believes the hernia may have been exacerbated by a bungee jump earlier in the year. Andy describes the symptoms leading to his diagnosis, the surgical process, and his challenges in prioritizing health over other activities. He reflects on why men often delay seeking medical help and highlights statistics showing that men are less likely to visit doctors than women.

Andy urges men to prioritize their health, seek medical attention when needed, and not ignore symptoms, as early intervention can be life-saving.

Introduction
Today, I'm going to share a personal story about my recent health scare and surgery and dive into a broader discussion about men's health and the reluctance many men feel when it comes to seeking medical attention.

A Personal Health Journey
Just yesterday, I underwent abdominal surgery to repair an umbilical hernia, which I believe was aggravated by a bungee jump I did earlier this year in Africa. The journey to this surgery was eye-opening and led me to reflect on many things, primarily about men's tendencies to ignore health issues.

Several months ago, I noticed a peculiar change in my belly button. It turned from an innie to an outie and was much firmer than usual. True to the stereotype, I ignored it. That was until intense pain hit me about six weeks ago, making me feel as though I'd done an excessive amount of sit-ups overnight. A solid mass had formed, which stretched from my belly button nearly to my rib cage. Finally, I decided to search for hernia symptoms online and realized I had them.

The Reluctance to Seek Help
The pain that morning was the crucial push to see my doctor, who confirmed my self-diagnosis. My surgery was necessary but easily delayed so I could attend my three Metallica concerts in April. Priorities, right? But this experience got me thinking—why are men so reluctant to seek medical help? Is it about appearing weak, or losing the role of protector and provider? Or is it deeper, a fear of getting older or even dying?

Statistics on Men's Health
The statistics on men's reluctance to seek medical care are concerning. Men are 24% less likely to have visited a doctor in the past year compared to women. Many only seek medical care when symptoms become severe. Why? Because 72% prefer to do chores over going to the doctor, and 20% admit they aren't honest with their doctors out of embarrassment. That's not just unwise—it's dangerous.

Why Men Avoid Medical Care
Several cultural and psychological reasons contribute to this harmful pattern:

• Cultural Norms: Social conditioning teaches men to "tough it out" and minimize complaints.
• Fear of Diagnosis: There's anxiety around getting bad news.
• Identity and Control: Seeking help can feel like admitting defeat.
• Poor Doctor-Patient Relationship: Some men feel that doctors dismiss them.
• Time Constraints: Men often prioritize work and family over their own health.

Conclusion: Embracing Real Health
It's crucial to understand that ignoring symptoms doesn't imply strength. Instead, it makes you vulnerable, putting you at unnecessary risk. If you're experiencing any physical, mental, or emotional issues, please get checked sooner rather than later. Early intervention can save your life. And if it turns out to be nothing, so much the better—laugh it off and be grateful for your health.

So until next time, take care of yourself. Remember, you're worthy of being a priority. My own journey has taught me that, and as I recover from my surgery, with an ice pack for company, I continue to learn and grow. Be good to yourself—you deserve it.

#RealMenFeel

Book a Clarity Call with Andy and get clear on your goals, what's in your way, and what you can do about it at https://theandygrant.com/talk

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