More Than Just a Mo:

The moment that changed everything for me was a few days before he passed away. I was at work, completely unable to focus, and looked out my office window to see a school rugby team training. There were dads on the sidelines, laughing and cheering, and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I thought about how scared my dad was but still kept fighting, and I knew I didn’t want to be in that same helpless position someday. I had to take my own health seriously—both mentally and physically.

Men’s health awareness has come a long way. Campaigns like Movember and events like the Daredevil Run have helped break down the stigma. They’ve made men’s health issues a visible and urgent topic, and I think that’s exactly what we need.

Mental Health: Getting Off Auto-Pilot

When I think back to the years I struggled with depression, it felt like I was just going through the motions. Everything blurred together. I was stuck on auto-pilot, and I knew I needed to make a change. I tried building new routines—walking, playing games—but they all seemed to fall back into the same pattern. What really helped was taking the leap to see a therapist. That first step of asking for help was tough, but it made all the difference. It was like having someone hold up a mirror and help me understand what was going on inside.

Over time, this journey has changed the way I look at mental health, not just for myself but for those around me. I’m more tuned in now, more likely to notice when someone is struggling. I don’t always get it right, but I try to reach out and let people know I’m there.

Finding Strength in Community

If there’s one thing I learned from my dad’s battle with prostate cancer, it’s that early detection is everything. I get it—nobody wants to think about it, and the tests can feel awkward. But trust me, it’s better to know. The tests today are usually just a simple blood test. I’d rather deal with that small discomfort than live with the constant fear of the unknown.

I’ve probably become a bit pushy about this with my friends and family, but it comes from a place of love. I’ll ask the uncomfortable questions if it means someone will think twice and get checked. We need to normalise these conversations.

Balancing Health and a Busy Life

As accountancy professionals, we’re always under pressure. Deadlines, demanding clients, endless battles with SARS—it’s easy to put our health last. But I’ve learned the hard way that you have to make time for yourself. For me, that means carving out “me” time, and I guard it fiercely. I use that time to meditate, reflect, and, yes, even attempt to jog (emphasis on “attempt”).

The key is prioritising yourself. Book time in your calendar for you. Treat it like a meeting you can’t cancel. Because if you don’t take care of yourself, how can you be there for everyone else?

Breaking the Stigma

Talking about health issues isn’t easy, especially in our profession. The stressors we deal with—tight deadlines, angry clients, endless paperwork—make it hard to admit when we’re struggling. But if we don’t start these conversations, who will? I’ve found that being open, even if it’s just with one person, can create a ripple effect. It’s not about announcing your problems to the world; it’s about finding that trusted friend, family member, or therapist who can be your anchor.

Final Thoughts: Stand Up for Yourself

So, here’s my call to action. First, let go of the things that drain you. Not everything deserves your energy, especially when you have to prioritise your health and happiness. Second, stand up—literally and metaphorically. Get up from your desk, move your body, and get those health checks done. Advocate for yourself and your well-being. You deserve it.

Men’s Health Awareness Month isn’t just a reminder to think about these issues. It’s a call to act. Together, we can break down the barriers, support one another, and build healthier, happier lives. Let’s make health our priority.