A timely reminder for men: health matters

Deception Bay RSL Sub Branch Members meet regularly for social catch-ups

Our health and wellbeing matter all year round, but from 13 – 19 June, the spotlight is on men’s health. Men’s Health Week is about breaking down the barriers that prevent men from seeking the information and support they need to live healthy, fulfilled lives. 

It’s something Deception Bay RSL Sub Branch has embraced, filming videos of members sharing how they take care of their own health and wellbeing.  

President Steve Hilton said his own experience with health is ongoing.  

“Not every day is perfect. I don’t like to sit at home, so I make sure I get outside at least once a day, walk our dog and just get some fresh air,” he says.  

The 56-year-old – who had a 30-year career in Defence – relocated to Brisbane from Canberra in 2019, and now works remotely from home.  

“I find going for a walk particularly helpful if I’m not in a good headspace. There’s bush turkeys and other things to focus on. It might only shift your focus for five or ten minutes, but it helps. 

“It reminds me that there are always things happening outside of the four walls of my home.”  

“There’s a lot of blokes out there – and perhaps it is to do with how it was done in the old days – where it just wasn’t the done thing to talk about how you were feeling or any struggles you were having,” he explains.  

“We have 95 members in our Sub Branch, and as the President I try to organise as many social interactions as I can with our members.  

“It’s hard. A lot of our younger veterans work full-time and we’re always trying to find ways for members to be involved and engage in a way that suits their lifestyle – whether they are retired or working full-time.”  

CHANGE IN THE AIR

Men's Health Week is an opportunity to highlight the health challenges faced by men

Steve says both the mental and physical aspects of health and wellbeing are being spoken of more regularly, and that it’s a good thing.  

“You can only try and educate. There’s a wealth of organisations willing to help and information out there,” he says.  

“Being able to ring our members, for example, and have a chat is so important. To see if they need support, or a lift to an appointment. It doesn’t have to be a big gesture. The little things help the most sometimes.” 

THREE TIPS TO START

Spending time outdoors is one of Steve's top health tips

In the video series Steve and the Deception Bay Sub Branch filmed for Men’s Health Week, they shared their top tips for caring for your mental health that are easy to weave into your day.  

1. Seek counselling via services like Open Arms or other support groups.   
2. Make movement a priority. Whether it’s going to the gym, riding an electric scooter (as Steve does!), walking the dog or another form of exercise, it’s key for maintaining our wellbeing. 
3. Get outside. As tempting as it can be to stay inside, getting outside for fresh air can be a welcome change. “It doesn’t have to be much. Watch a car drive past from your driveway or sit in the park and watch the birds. You need to get out of the house. Sitting at home is not healthy,” Steve says. 

He reassures veterans to seek out the company of others, “You are never alone out there. There’s always someone to talk to, someone to walk with. You just need to reach out.” 

SHOULDER TO SHOULDER

RSL Queensland can help veterans stay physically and emotionally healthy  

There are many services, programs and support available to help veterans and their families stay mentally and physically healthy. You can find help on our website, get involved with your local Sub Branch or check out our What’s On page to find events tailored for the Defence community happening near you.

To find out more about Men’s Health Week, please visit www.healthymale.org.au.  

Want to stay informed? Subscribe today and get the latest news, services, events and more direct to your email inbox.