Regional Men's Health: Put Yourself Over The Pits

Warriors Wellbeing

What is the Fast Track Pit Stop?

A lot of blokes would appreciate the hard work and effort that goes into maintaining something we love.  Whether it’s a new car, a valued piece of machinery, or our weekend toys (boat, motorbike).  If we don’t service and look after our machines regularly it will eventually affect their performance and easy fix problems may be compounded, and will end up costing us time and money.

So why is this any different to our wellbeing and health? To put it simply if we neglect our wellbeing and health (whether it be physical, mental or social/spiritual) it will eventually catch up with us and could cost us more than just time and money.  Do we think about the way this flows on to affect other facets of our lives, whether it be our relationships (family, work or business), loss of function or participation in the things we enjoy?

It is important to recognise that the ageing process throws up all sorts of changes and complications.  Sometimes illness and diseases can’t be avoided, however, something as simple as a “routine service visit” or discussion with your GP or treating health professional may assist in the early detection and prevention of certain health and wellbeing issues.

At RMHI we have a simple but effective program that aims to empower men and communities to take responsibility for their wellbeing and health. The Fast Track Pit Stop is related to the servicing of a vehicle and is a non-clinical, non-invasive way of helping men become more aware and take charge of their own health and wellbeing.  It involves a 3 Point Health Awareness Check:

1. Waist Measurement/Chassis:  A waistline of more than 102cm (men) and 88cm (women) gives us an increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, some cancers, stroke, heart disease and high blood pressure.  Long term storage of internal fat surrounding the heart, liver, pancreas and kidneys is just one indicator.
2. Blood Pressure/Oil Pressure:  According to the Heart Foundation, high blood pressure is one of the main risk factors for heart disease, stroke and blood vessel disease. So it’s important to firstly know your blood pressure, but also take steps to manage it if it’s getting high.
3. Coping Skills/Shockies: We are all affected by life’s ups and downs, participants are given 10 questions to help identify stress levels. Encouraging communication and help seeking is part of the problem solving process.

 

We think it’s about being there, allowing blokes to have a conversation, and listening. Life is hectic, people are busy, but it’s about taking a minute to sit down, have a break and think about OUR health and wellbeing.

RMHI delivers the Fast Track Pit Stop program across rural and regional WA and can be set up on the back of the ute, under a marquee or in a hall. Field days and agricultural show season is on now so look out for the red utes and come and have a chat.  It’s time to start thinking about your service schedule habits!

 

Terry and the Team

The Regional Men’s Health Initiative, delivered by Wheatbelt Men’s Health (Inc.)

PO Box 768, Northam WA 6401

Tel: (08) 9690 2277

Email: menshealth@4blokes.com.au

Web: www.4blokes.com.au