Annually, June is dedicated to breaking the stigma around emotional vulnerability and encouraging men to seek help. This campaign combats the stigma around male vulnerability, promotes early intervention, and addresses the severe crisis, as men account for nearly 80% of all suicides.
Research has explored the potential connection between metabolic health and mental health. While metabolic health governs how your body converts and uses energy, mental health dictates your emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Despite these distinct definitions, they are deeply interconnected; a growing body of research suggests that metabolic dysfunction can influence brain function, mood, and psychiatric symptoms.
Peptide-based metabolic treatments, traditionally used to manage type 2 diabetes and support weight loss, are increasingly attracting attention for their possible effects on cognitive and emotional well-being. Researchers are investigating whether these therapies may influence mood, cognition, and emotional well-being in addition to improving metabolic health.
“Men are often reluctant to talk about their health, but recognising changes early and seeking help before a crisis develops can be life-changing for both physical and mental wellbeing,” said Dr Gerhard Vosloo, founder and head consulting practitioner at BioWell.
“The connection between metabolic health and mental health is bidirectional; chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal changes can have a significant impact on mood, anxiety, and emotional well-being.
“Many patients report feeling calmer, more focused, and less reactive to stress during treatment, suggesting that the benefits may extend beyond weight loss and metabolic improvement alone.”
A 2025 review published in Nature Mental Health by researchers De Giorgi and colleagues found evidence that peptide-based treatments interact with neurological systems involved in mood and cognition, although clinical benefits remain under investigation.
Vosloo explained these treatments act on receptors involved in appetite regulation, inflammation, and reward pathways within brain systems also linked to mood, anxiety, and stress-related behaviour.
‘Seeking help is not a sign of weakness’
He encourages men to recognise that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a step towards taking control of their health and future. “Many men ignore symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, anxiety, and declining motivation, often believing they simply have to endure them.
“However, early intervention and proper assessment can identify underlying physical and mental health issues before they develop into more serious problems,” Vosloo said.
OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm
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