November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about men’s physical and mental health, encourage prevention, and remind people that seeking support should never be a source of shame.
The international Movember movement draws attention to important issues, including mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.
But behind awareness campaigns and statistics lies a simple question: How often do men put their own health last?
For Ukrainian men living abroad, this question can be especially relevant. Displacement, adapting to a new country, financial responsibilities, uncertainty, and concern for loved ones can make personal well-being feel like something to address later.
Yet taking care of your health is not a luxury. It is an essential part of building a stable and fulfilling life.
“I’m Just Tired”: When Mental Health Needs Attention
Stress and emotional exhaustion are common responses to difficult life circumstances. However, persistent anxiety, sleep difficulties, feelings of isolation, or a loss of interest in everyday activities should not be dismissed.
Some men may find it difficult to talk about their emotions because of social expectations that encourage them to remain strong, independent, and self-reliant.
For those who have experienced forced displacement, these expectations may become an additional burden.
Living far from home, worrying about family members in Ukraine, navigating unfamiliar systems, and trying to rebuild everyday routines can all affect emotional well-being.
Asking for psychological support does not mean being unable to cope. It means recognising that your well-being matters.
Talking with a trusted person, reaching out to a mental health professional, or joining a supportive community can be meaningful first steps.
“It Will Go Away”: Why Physical Health Should Not Be Ignored
Men’s Health Awareness Month also encourages greater attention to physical health and the importance of timely medical consultations.
Unusual changes in the body, persistent discomfort, urinary problems, or concerns related to sexual and reproductive health are all valid reasons to speak with a healthcare professional.
Conditions such as prostate and testicular cancer are among the health issues highlighted by Movember. Recognising possible symptoms and discussing personal risk factors with a doctor can help people make informed decisions about their health.
However, medical examinations and screening recommendations depend on factors such as age, symptoms, family history, and individual risk. There is no single screening schedule appropriate for every man.
Preventive healthcare also includes managing chronic conditions, discussing vaccinations, addressing sexual health concerns, and seeking professional advice when something changes.
You do not have to wait until a health concern becomes severe before asking for help.
Looking After Your Health in a New Country
For Ukrainian refugees in Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia, accessing healthcare can involve additional challenges.
Even when medical services are available, understanding how to register with a healthcare provider, arrange an appointment, communicate symptoms, or access specialised assistance may be difficult.
Language barriers can be particularly challenging when discussing sensitive health concerns, including mental health, HIV, sexually transmitted infections, or reproductive health.
Uncertainty about available services, confidentiality, and administrative procedures may also discourage people from seeking assistance.
This is why clear information, respectful communication, and accessible support are essential.
Everyone should have the opportunity to discuss their health concerns without fear of stigma or discrimination.
How RefAid BaltHUB Can Help
Within RefAid BaltHUB, partner organisations support Ukrainian refugees in navigating healthcare and social support systems in Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia.
The project brings together EHPV in Estonia, Association Demetra in Lithuania, and AGIHAS in Latvia to provide information, counselling, psychosocial support, peer assistance, and referrals to relevant services.
For someone who does not know where to begin, a consultation can help clarify available options and identify possible next steps.
Depending on individual needs and available services, this may include assistance with healthcare navigation, information about HIV and other infections, or access to psychosocial support.
RefAid BaltHUB does not replace medical professionals, but it can help people find their way through unfamiliar systems and connect with appropriate support.
Taking Care of Yourself Is a Form of Strength
Men’s Health Awareness Month is not about expecting every man to follow the same health routine or meet a particular standard.
It is about encouraging greater awareness, reducing stigma, and making it easier to seek help when needed.
Sometimes the first step is scheduling a medical consultation. Sometimes it is speaking openly about emotional difficulties. And sometimes it is simply acknowledging that things have not been easy.
For men rebuilding their lives after displacement, recognising personal needs is just as important as supporting others.
Being strong does not mean having to handle everything alone.
This November, take a moment to ask yourself: “How am I really feeling?”
And if you are living in Estonia, Lithuania, or Latvia and need help navigating available healthcare or psychosocial services, RefAid BaltHUB can help you explore your options.
Because your health deserves attention — not only in November, but throughout the year.
