Last updated on August 29th, 2017 at 10:18 am

Fact: According to the Men’s Health Forum, one in four of us will develop a mental health problem this year. Two men take their own lives every day and, after years of falling, the suicide rate has increased as the economy has struggled.

Common causes of stress

There are a number of factors that contribute to stress. The more common factors are:

• money
• work
• relationships

Common signs of stress

• lack of sleep
• poor concentration
• low self-esteem
• headaches
• irritability

Other factors include increased alcohol and cigarette consumption, short-temper and irrational thought.

Effects of stress

Stress can have an effect on life expectancy, your immune system and sex life. It can also increase your susceptibility to other major life impacting health conditions.

Below is a list of the main habits which, if reduced or removed, can assist in improving your general health and well-being and reduce stress:

Release stress: Work, physical or emotional tensions are all signs of stress. Easy ways to address these conditions include exercising regularly, eating healthily and utilising your support structure to discuss your problems – be it family, friends or an appropriate professional support group.

Reduce alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption can be seen as a support for those struggling with stress. Excessive alcohol drinking and alcohol reliance has a major impact on the human body and, unfortunately, men are more likely to drink heavily compared to women. For young men and prospective fathers, alcohol can interfere with male hormone production, the fertility of semen and sexual function.

Quit smoking: Increased consumption of cigarettes can be a sign of stress. Smoking is a silent killer. It causes harm to most organs within the body and is the major cause of lung cancer as well as contributing to the causes of other cancers and respiratory disease.

Get a good nights sleep: Always aim for between 7-8 hours sleep each night. Alcohol and sedatives impact on one’s ability to get a good night’s sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to increased anxiety and stress. Seek help if you feel you may have a sleeping disorder.

Between June 13- 16, Men’s Health Forum will focus on challenging men to open up about stress.

Tackle the issue head-on, even if you just start by talking to friends. A problem shared is a problem halved.

Further information on the above can be found on the Men’s Health Forum website, which contains useful information in the form of self-help books, entitled Man Manuals, written in partnership with Haynes.