Health push for men at forefront

A fitness circuit bringing blokes from around the Pilbara together will be launched tomorrow in a bid to encourage more men to speak up about mental health.

Men’s Health Week officially started on Monday and will run through the weekend. It aims to raise awareness for men to take action on a variety of health concerns, including mental health.

Headspace Pilbara will be running events across the region, including exercise circuits in Karratha, Port Hedland and Newman.

Karratha’s circuit, run in collaboration with Karratha Leisureplex, will involve full-body movements and takes place tomorrow.

Headspace Pilbara community development officer Dee Juskov said the event would create a safe space for men to talk.

Ms Juskov said headspace was using Men’s Health Week as an opportunity for males to look after their mental health as much as their physical health.

“Men’s Health Week is a great reminder for men to take stock of their overall health so that they can put extra attention to areas they have been putting off,” she said. “It’s very easy to get swept up in work, family, and life in general, which is why these weeks are so important.”

Ms Juskov said it was important to take small steps everyday to look after your wellbeing.

“This is why connecting with others regularly helps you stay motivated and happy, and we wanted to show our support to men in the community by hosting this event,” she said. Ms Juskov said living in the Pilbara offered challenges to men’s health.

“We don’t have as many doctor appointments available, and not everyone knows when they will be unwell or feeling down,” she said.

The outdoor fitness session takes place tomorrow from 5pm at the Karratha Leisureplex.