West Wimmera Health launch rural health podcast educate

Men's Health Week is an important week that highlights men's health and the lack of communication and action.

Men are far less likely to talk about their health, or even visit their GP for a check up.

West Wimmera Health Service chief executive officer Ritchie Dodds said men in regional areas have a shorter life expectancy of three years compared to men in metropolitan areas.

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"Men tend to not talk about their health, go to the doctor less, get check ups less and that translates into men in the country having a lower life expectancy," he said.

"That shouldn't happen."

West Wimmera Health Service have launched a health podcast called Farmer Wants a Healthy Life which already has over 300 downloads worldwide.

Mr Dodd said the podcast covers all sorts of health, especially mental health.

"Hopefully our podcast will raise awareness of health," he said.

"Mental health is an area when men tend to suffer greater levels."

Mr Dodds said the podcast is a way to share information and educate the community about health.

"We need to continue to raise awareness and being understanding when people come forward with their issues," he said.

"Mental illness can affect any of us at any time.

"We need to be brave enough to leave the past in the past, when talking about mental health was taboo."

This year's theme for Men's Health Week is "Connecting for Men's Health" and to connect and work together across genders, cultures and communities.

Grampians Community Health chief executive officer, Greg Little said connections can be vital to men looking after themselves.

Mr Little said men think there has to be a reason to talk about their health

"What men need to do is to talk to people they care about and listen to them, family and friends are always great sources of home truths and advice," he said.

"The times I have seen a health service provider I have always come out better and stronger and healthier for the experience, I'm no picture of health, we don't need to be, but I am a lot healthier for listening to my family, friends and health care providers."

To listen to the Farmer Wants a Healthy Life podcast, visit wwhs.net.au/community_care/Farmer-wants-a-healthy-life

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