Men’s Health Week 2023: Promoting Balance and Wellbeing
Men’s Health Week this 12th - 18th of June 2023, aims to shed light on the impact of technology on men’s mental health and foster a healthy balance between technology use and overall wellbeing. By acknowledging the potential risks of excessive smartphone use and raising awareness about available resources, this initiative encourages men to take control of their relationship with technology and prioritise their mental health.
Digital Wellbeing
In today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives, offering convenience, connectivity, and endless sources of information and entertainment. Among the various devices we use, the smartphone stands out as a powerful tool that has transformed the way we interact with the world. However, it is essential to recognise that our smartphones can also act as dopamine-delivery devices, exerting a profound influence on our brain chemistry and overall mental wellbeing.
Understanding Dopamine and its Effects
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain responsible for regulating pleasure, reward, motivation, and focus. When we engage in activities that release dopamine, such as eating delicious food, achieving goals, or receiving positive social feedback, we experience a sense of pleasure and satisfaction. Our brains are wired to seek out dopamine-releasing experiences, as they are crucial for our survival and overall well-being.
The Potential for Addiction and Negative Consequences
While occasional use of technology for dopamine release is generally harmless, excessive and uncontrolled consumption can lead to negative consequences. The potential for addiction to smartphone use is a growing concern, as it can lead to diminished productivity, strained relationships, financial implications, and a decline in overall mental and physical health. Recognising the signs of excessive smartphone use and taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy relationship with technology is essential.
The CAN DO Challenge: A Path to Digital Wellbeing
As part of Men’s Health Week, participants are encouraged to take a screen break and engage in the CAN DO Challenge. This free challenge provides a structured approach to reduce screen time and discover alternative activities that promote mental wellbeing. By participating in the challenge, men can gain a fresh perspective, reclaim their time, and redirect their focus towards more meaningful pursuits.
The Challenge:
- Connect - connect with other people (eg. call an old friend or family member)
- (Be) Active - move your body (eg. go for a run/walk)
- Notice - take notice of the environment around you (eg. turn off your phone for an hour and look around)
- Discover - learn something new (eg. read a book you haven't read before)
- Offer (or give) - do something for someone else (eg. volunteer for a local community group)
Taking a Holistic Approach
While the CAN DO Challenge alone offers numerous benefits for mental wellbeing, individuals looking for a more comprehensive assessment can explore the Man MOT For The Mind manual. This resource provides valuable insights, tools, and techniques to evaluate and enhance mental health, fostering a proactive approach to overall well-being.
View the full Man MOT For The Mind here:
Men’s Health Week 2023 and initiatives like the CAN DO Challenge aims to empower individuals to establish a healthy relationship with technology, allowing them to harness its benefits while safeguarding their mental health. By taking proactive steps and finding a balance, we can ensure that technology remains a tool for our betterment rather than a source of addiction or detriment.
For more support visit the links below:
Health Unlocked by Men’s Health Forum: Men's Health Forum | HealthUnlocked
Mind’s Get Help Now page: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/
Samaritans: Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen
