In celebration of International Men’s Health Week (13-19 June) WISE Employment Rehabilitation Counsellor, Michael Iacovino explores the notion that employment is good for a man’s health and it’s not all about the money.

"Culturally man is the bread winner and as a role model – he’s a dad, brother, son, husband or boyfriend.

To be a good role model though, he needs to be happily and gainfully occupied. He wants to be seen as ambitious, busy, a motivator, and a person who has risen above adversity to succeed.

Of course regular income helps us achieve our goals and leads to financial independence, but being actively employed in a non-paid capacity (i.e. volunteering, coaching, mentoring) can be equally rewarding.

Participating in something, receiving feedback and feeling like you’re contributing to your community is very important to a man’s health.

When you’re unemployed you feel like you’re on the fringe, but employment brings you back to participating in the real world.

Whatever your barriers are, they become insignificant when you’re achieving goals at work. Work helps shift the focus away from negative thoughts. You gain more confidence and feel like you’re a member of a wider community.

Work opens new doors to friendships, networks and social activities.

Work-life balance is important too. If a man is burning out, ask questions. Encourage him to rethink the balance and allow him time to reflect.

Whether we’re a man or woman though, we want independence and being employed ultimately allows us to achieve personal and professional progress.”