Every year on November 19, a global message is sent out to every man, as society stands up and says: You are seen, your efforts matter, and your challenges deserve attention.The idea of International Men’s Day was established at the end of the last century to be an occasion to celebrate men’s humanitarian and social roles—not just as fathers, brothers, or partners, but as individuals who strive to build, succeed, and care in all aspects of life.

The Beginning

Calls to recognize this day began in the 1960s, but the first official celebration took place in 1999, when Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh chose his father’s birthday as a symbol for this global event, inspiring the world to look at the role of men in families and societies from a new perspective.
The occasion quickly spread to dozens of countries and became an annual opportunity to raise men’s issues, increase awareness of physical and mental health, and spotlight positive role models everywhere—not just sports or media stars but every man who makes a difference through patience, achievement, or supporting those around him.

This day is built around six main pillars, most notably the promotion of physical and mental health, combating stereotypes, supporting equality and improving relationships, and encouraging honest conversations about masculinity and the challenges men face at every age and in every context.
In this way, men are no longer just providers or disciplinarians, but examples of balance between responsibility and emotion, between ambition and rest, between work and home.

In the Arab world, this day is seen as a vital opportunity to reconsider men’s issues that have long been neglected or kept silent, prompting health and social organizations and media campaigns to discuss topics like mental health, work pressures, and men’s impact in a changing society.

Personal Care and Physical Health

Among all of life’s responsibilities, men may neglect self-care, yet health and personal hygiene remain cornerstones of wellbeing.
Personal care is fundamental to self-confidence and disease prevention. Bodily hygiene starts with daily showers, using appropriate products for skin and hair, not skipping daily tooth brushing, and paying attention to beard, hairstyle, and regular nail trimming.
Physical health is just as crucial as mental. Today’s generations of men are more aware that enough sleep and regular exercise are essential, not optional, and that a balanced, healthy diet and giving up harmful habits like smoking and chronic stress make a real difference in every man’s life.

Essential Tips for Every Man on International Men’s Day

• Don’t skip regular health check-ups, even if you feel fine prevention is better than cure.

• Commit to daily hygiene: showering, brushing teeth, grooming hair and beard, and using quality products to keep your skin and appearance healthy.

• Make time each day to relax and meditate, devoting moments to a hobby or physical activity.

• Speak openly about feelings of anxiety or stress with a close friend or professional—this supports your mental health.

Risks of Neglecting Health and Personal Care

Ignoring personal cleanliness can lead to skin infections, dental issues, body odor, and sometimes even more severe dangers like infection or the progression of chronic diseases in the heart or liver. Men may also lose self-confidence and face isolation or even problems in their professional and social relationships.
Neglecting mental health can lead to chronic anxiety, depression, and difficulties communicating with family and colleagues, and in some cases, even loss of productivity and withdrawal from public life.

Conclusion

International Men’s Day serves not just as an occasion for celebration but as a call to renew commitment to personal, physical, and mental health—a reminder that self-care is not just for one day, but the foundation of a balanced, happy, and strong life. True masculinity today means taking full responsibility for yourself, and real success starts with self-respect and everyday care—not just on a single occasion.