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Thursday 4 June 2026

Peer Reviewed

Psychological medicine

Encouraging your male patient to discuss his health concerns

Kay Wilhelm

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Abstract

Men tend to seek help for health problems less often and less readily than women. Some simple measures can help ensure their needs are met.

Key Points

Remember

Men have lower rates than women for using all health related services, including GPs, hospitals, health promotion services, alternative therapists and telephone counsellors. The difference is not explained by superior health in men, but by a combination of factors related to help seeking methods, personal beliefs, social context, and difficulties with access.
Compared with women, men seek help less often and less readily and have a lower level of health literacy, especially for emotional problems. They are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviours and less likely to engage in behaviours that tend to prolong life and improve health.