From joking with mates at the pub to sharing laughs in podcasts, men are approaching serious health topics by showing the funny side.
That’s why, we’ve launched The Dry Hour, a new social series fronted by actor and comedian Justin Moorhouse to help encourage open and honest health conversations amongst men.
As TENA Men's research reveals 70% of men use humour to talk about health issues, The Dry Hour explores this dynamic — delving into why laughter often leads the way when it comes to tackling tough topics.
Host Justin Moorehouse has been joined by guests including adaptive athlete Jamie Gane, behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings, and Aldred Fagan, a volunteer ambassador from Cancer UK. Together, they’ll unpack how humour can break down barriers and make space for meaningful conversations.
We’ll be releasing new episodes of The Dry Hour over the coming months, so keep your eyes on our social channels for the latest episode. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and join our community on Facebook where you can help break the stigma, connect with other men experiencing similar issues, and find the right solutions.
“Men often use humour as a social coping mechanism to navigate conversations around serious issues such as their health. When discussing topics that may carry stigma or embarrassment, such as bladder weakness, humour allows them to approach the topic without seeming vulnerable or feeling emasculated.”
We asked men to tell us how they feel about – and if they turn to humour to make things easier.
Almost half (49%) of men who experience bladder leaks believe humour helps lighten the conversation and 39% said it helps them feel more comfortable opening up.
A shocking 68% of men who experience believe there is still stigma around men discussing their health concerns openly, while two thirds of men don’t feel comfortable speaking about their bladder weakness with a partner.
Worryingly, 77% don't feel confident confiding in any friends or family.
However, 57% of men would feel more comfortable talking about health issues if they heard more men speaking openly about similar topics.
