Men have more accidents, suffer more lifestyle-related health conditions, and sadly, more men take their own lives than women.

It is well documented that men visit their general practitioner less frequently than women, and that feeds the perception that men don't care about their health.

This week is Men's Health Week, and the focus of many groups seems to be encouraging men to make better lifestyle and health choices and not to be afraid to go and get a check-up.

According to the Heart Foundation, more than 30 per cent of men in Australia have high cholesterol, and almost 75 per cent are overweight or obese. One-quarter of males have high to severe blood pressure levels.

They say walking is an excellent way for men to reduce these risk factors. But men's health week is not just about going for a walk, not drinking alcohol in significant quantities and quitting smoking.

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It is also about mental health.

The Dubbo men's shed has highlighted the need for blokes to get around each other and actually talk to one another.

Men's Shed Association Secretary John Gibson says statistics show males between the age of 30 to 40 are at the highest risk of depression, but once you reach retirement, that increases again.

Mr Gibson says the Men's Shed give each other the support and direction retired men need.

"You need something to do, something to keep your mind busy," he said.

That sounds like pretty good advice, whether you are a retired man or not.

If you are a bloke, take some time this week to think about your health.

Book in a check-up with your GP and actually go, call a mate and organise a walk, or a game of golf and a chat.

You'll feel better for it.