talking men’s health: understanding and supporting men with long-term conditions

This book explores male health psychology in relation to chronic health conditions. Using data from men with rheumatic diseases as a starting point, this book draws on the wider literature to focus on how men talk about different aspects of living with long-term health issues. This includes how men discuss the impact of chronic illness on their sense of control and self-reliance, masculine identity, body image, mental health, sex and intimacy, and for those living with a life-limiting condition how they discuss facing their mortality. It also covers how men self-manage and what influences their help-seeking behaviours. Whilst men are often branded as ’hard to reach’, the author argues that when given permission and provided with the right environment, men will talk about their health. This book takes the stance men are under-served by health services and includes suggestions for developing support services for health and mental health that meet men’s needs and preferences.
Focussing on the experiences and support needs of men with long-term conditions, this is an ideal reading for clinicians, healthcare professionals, and practitioners working with men with long-term conditions, as well as early career researchers and students interested in male psychology, men’s health, and gender and society.

Caroline Flurey is a chartered psychologist and Associate Professor of Men’s Health and Long-Term Conditions at the University of the West of England, Bristol, UK. She is trustee of the Men & Boys Coalition and member of parliament’s task and finish group for men’s health.