Time to take men’s health back to the shed
by Jon Brooks
New research at the Spencer Gulf Rural Health School, which is a joint initiative between the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, is revealing the health benefits of community Men’s Sheds.
"Men’s Sheds are something of a modern-day Australian phenomenon – a grass roots community movement that’s taken hold around the nation," said Gary Misan, Associate Professor and Head of Research at the Spencer Gulf Rural Health School in Whyalla.
"They are giving generally older, retired men a place to go where they can enjoy the camaraderie of other men, where tools and equipment are available, where they can share ideas and learn with other men and where they can take part in meaningful productive activities that they enjoy."
Dr Misan said there is a need for new means to tackle chronic health problems in men and believes that the community shed may provide a setting that addresses many of the barriers to men seeking health information, including lack of male friendly environments, stoicism, and fear of appearing weak.
"There’s no doubt that men are the unhealthy Australians. They live shorter lives, they’re more likely to suffer chronic lifestyle diseases and less likely to seek regular medical advice," he said.
"Men’s Sheds could be part of the answer. Men who are involved in the sheds report improved social and emotional well-being, a greater sense of purpose, identity and self-worth, increased community involvement and reduced social isolation."
Contrary to popular belief, Dr Misan says men are interested in their health but current systems are failing to engage men, particularly more socio-economically disadvantaged groups. These are the same men who are members of Men’s Sheds.
"Research shows that given an environment where men feel comfortable, they are receptive to health advice and health promotion messages," he said.
"Using the shed as a vehicle for delivering health messages just might improve health outcomes for men who currently are less engaged with the system."