Men in the UAE are more likely to take immediate action over a broken laptop, a social media hack, or a car warning light than seek support for ongoing low mood or mental health concerns, according to new research from AXA Global Healthcare.
The study, which explores how men approach preventative health, paints a concerning picture of low urgency around mental wellbeing. While 89% of UAE men said they would act within a week if they lost their bank card, just 56% would seek advice in the same timeframe if they experienced persistent low mood or a lack of motivation - known as early indicators of a deeper mental health issue.
The data suggests a pattern in how men prioritise their responsibilities, with external and practical issues often outweighing personal health. Most men said they would take swift action if they noticed an unexpected dip in their bank balance or discovered a leak at home, with both scenarios prompting urgency from almost 90% of respondents, but in comparison, fewer than six in ten would act as quickly on a potential physical or emotional health concern.
Other issues also ranked ahead of wellbeing. Eighty-four percent said they would respond to a vehicle warning light within a week, while 80% would act quickly to care for a sick pet. A broken laptop would prompt action from 79% of men, and 86% would respond quickly if their social media account were hacked.
Karim Idilby, Chief Growth Officer - AXA Health International, says:
"It's clear that for many men in the UAE, technology, finances and practical matters seem to be prioritised before their physical and emotional health. We urgently need to normalise a more proactive approach to wellbeing - not just wait for something to go wrong."