Men’s Health Month

November is Men's Health Awareness Month, in particular raising awareness of both prostate and testicular cancer, and men's suicide. It is recognised that being diagnosed with a lifelong genetic condition, such as NF, can cause significant impact on mental health, yet it is also widely known that men, and in particular young men, find it very difficult to talk about their problems and the impact on their mental health.

We cannot stress enough how important it is to talk about your health and our team is here to help. The NTUK Specialist NF Nurses play a vital role in supporting the mental health of patients who have NF, as the condition can significantly affect some individual’s cognitive ability and also their ability to socially interact and communicate with others. It is imperative that referrals are made to other specialist services, to provide individuals with the extra support that they may need. In addition, the complexity of health complications that individuals with NF may suffer from, can significantly affect their mental health and their coping ability. In such cases it may be appropriate to refer the individual to counselling or psychology services. Our team play a key role in making these assessments and onward referrals.  

Men are also more likely to ignore their physical health. Men, and women, should have regular check-ups, for example, for those diagnosed with NF1, they should have an annual blood pressure check with their GP and an eye check with an optician at least every 2 years. For those with NF2, it is imperative that they see their Clinical Specialists as arranged. It is also extremely important not to ignore changes in your health, for example any lumps that are painful all the time or any other lasting pain; limb weakness or ‘pins & needles; dizziness or blurred vision, headaches that are getting worse, unusual growths, lumps that were soft and have hardened; and sudden hearing loss for those diagnosed with NF2.

This year’s theme:  "It's time to prioritize mental health in the workplace"

A visible physical difference might impact a person's confidence and hence their ability to work. Our "iNForm your Workplace program" brings together our Specialist NF Nurses along with employees, employers and colleagues, giving both advice and support to establish a positive and accessible environment for people in the workplace. 

We can also host training sessions for human resources and other senior managers, especially if it is a much larger company and one, where there may be a number of employees with NF. Working with both the employer, their HR department, and the employee, will benefit all parties, optimising the work experience and work effort, and ultimately both the employee's and corporate goals.