For many of us, this is when we celebrate the guys in our lives, as Father’s Day hits the calendar and we bust out the barbecue grills. It’s also a good time, now that we’re almost at the midpoint of 2025, to take a fresh look at men’s health. 

The days of avoiding treatment for concerning physical symptoms or staying silent about emotions and struggles are over. With simple at-home tests, better access to counselors and coaches, and with greater openness to the topic of men’s health, making sure the guys in our lives are staying healthy reflects a better day.

There are important trends, stats, and updates to consider. Take a look at these key areas for 2025, a Guy State of the Union. 

🧠 Mental Health: Breaking the Silence

Let’s be honest, it might still be hard for you to talk about your feelings, about the pressures you face, about how that all makes you feel. But the tide is turning on thankfully turning on that hesitance to talk about mental wellness. 

Studies show that American men from the ages of 15 to 34 experience greater loneliness than women of the same age. Men in the U.S. also show higher levels of loneliness than men in similar countries, which means that the loneliness epidemic is even more of a danger here at home. 

A recent survey showed that 77% of men say they have dealt with challenging symptoms due to mental health issues, and 40% say they’ve never talked to someone about their mental health. Work pressure, financial issues, and concerns about their health rate as the type three issues men cite that impact their mental health.1

There’s a unique effort afoot to break through the stigma or embarrassment men often feel when it comes to talking about their mental wellness. “Man Therapy” is an initiative launched as an effort, through humor, to encourage men to have conversations about mental well-being.2

For Members of Altrua HealthShare, access to counseling and coaching is available on several membership levels. While in-person sessions are available, this feature also includes telecounseling, to make the process even more convenient. If you’re not currently a Member of Altrua HealthShare, or if you have questions about your current membership, contact a Member Services Representative at 1.888.244.3839.

🏃 Physical Fitness: Embracing Healthy Wellness, Not Punishing Workouts

“No pain, no gain.” Sure, we’ve all heard that maxim. But the problem with workouts that push your body too far is that there are consequences to pay. Higher cortisol. Injuries. Recovery times that make it feel like you’re having to start all over again. And skipping practices that can have a big impact on physical health, like rest, stretching, and hot-cold therapy.

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. But it’s time to consider fitness as a set of disciplines that go beyond pushing the heaviest weight or running more and more miles. Research is showing the power of zone 2 cardio for your overall health. The Mayo Clinic has released their findings on the importance of hot-cold therapies and their place in your fitness routine. 3 If you’re only hitting the weights at the gym, you’re missing out on a more holistic approach to your fitness. 

This doesn’t mean you have to add more to your plate when it comes to fitness. Simply swapping out a weight day for pilates, taking some time to sit in the sauna over putting in a couple more miles, these are all things that can help bring a more rounded approach to your fitness. 

🧬 Reproductive Health: The Growing Crisis of Male Fertility 

Men in Western countries have a quiet crisis underway. Sperm counts in men have been cut in half over the last 50 years. 4 It’s thought that environmental pollutants and toxins, obesity, and other lifestyle choices such as a diet high in processed foods may be to blame for this dramatic drop. While we typically focus on a woman’s health when it comes to childbearing, dad’s health plays a significant role in fertility and conceiving a healthy baby. 

Informed medical providers today are proactive in helping their male patients consider their overall reproductive health. 5

🧴 Self-Care: Yes, It’s for Guys, Too

Guys today are becoming more interested in taking care of their bodies, minds, and spirits. Skin care, spiritual retreats, spa experiences, it’s not just for the girls. The men’s personal care market reached $90.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to soar to $115.3 billion by 2028. 

 

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

I Corinthians 6:19-20

📅 Take Action: Your Health Checklist

To stay ahead in your health journey, consider the following:

  • Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Early detection is key. Regular screenings can catch potential issues before they become serious.
  • Prioritize Mental Health: Engage in open conversations, seek support when needed, and consider practices like meditation or therapy.
  • Adopt a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, reduce processed food intake, and stay hydrated.
  • Stay Active: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, whether it’s walking, yoga, or strength training.
  • Embrace Self-Care: Invest time in activities that rejuvenate you, be it skincare, hobbies, or relaxation techniques.