Exploring the impact of a large gender-sensitised health promotion program: the Sons of the West program

AIM Evaluation of the outcomes gender-sensitised programs that target men with poor health behaviours is lacking. The purpose this study was to provide an understanding psychosocial changes related participation in Sons West (SOTW) men's promotion program run by Western Bulldogs Community Foundation. METHODS All who participated SOTW during 2017 were asked complete surveys at beginning and end program. quantitative measures psychological wellbeing (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, K10), social connectedness loneliness (UCLA Loneliness UCLA-L), resilience (Brief Resilience BRS). In addition, we analysed participants' responses offer within support any participant need. Men provided a code so data could be matched RESULTS A high rate (776/1003) achieved. There statistically significant improvements mean K10 scores from pre- (population [M] = 17.34; standard deviation [SD] 6.98) post-program (M 14.98; SD 6.27), for samples (p < 0.001). Matched also showed UCLA-L 38.58; 10.87) 37.42; 10.87), BRS 3.44; 0.79) 3.62; 0.74). Results help-seeking question one-third participants open concept receiving additional support. CONCLUSIONS This preliminary shows broad-ranging, can have effect on male participants. findings insights future research, suggest has potential generalisation other populations.