Every November men grow moustaches for charities raising money for men’s health, including men’s mental health which requires urgent attention.
Here is why..
Four in five suicides are by men, with suicide the biggest cause of death for men under 35.
In 2022, men aged 40 to 54 had the highest suicide rates in the UK.
Men are nearly three times as likely as women to become dependent on alcohol and three times as likely to report frequent drug use.
Men often struggle to express their emotions and seek help for mental health issues. This can lead to serious consequences, including depression, anxiety, and even suicide. By breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, we can encourage men to prioritise their well-being and seek the support they need.
Movember also raises awareness of physical health issues related to men such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
Remember, there is no health without good mental health.
Suicide in men can be seen as men not seeking help for their mental health conditions or social problems. The obstacles to seeking help result from societal expectations, stigma around seeking help, and a lack of awareness about mental health resources.
The moustache is Movember’s mascot.
What can you do?
Grow your moustache as a sign of solidarity.
Set a physical activity goal, like running or walking 60 km over the month, representing the 60 men lost to suicide every hour worldwide.
Start conversations in with your friends and workplace, to encourage dialogue about health without stigma.
Donate to fund programmes and research.
Movember is an opportunity to address men’s health and men’s mental health where men can feel supported. It can foster peer support, creating safe spaces for emotional expression, and integrating mental health education into workplaces and communities.
Movember plays a crucial role in addressing men’s mental health by:
Raising Awareness and by growing moustaches, Movember sparks conversations about men’s health issues and challenges the stereotypes associated with masculinity.
Funding Research, the funds raised through Movember are invested in research to better understand and treat men’s health conditions, including mental health disorders in men.
Supporting Men’s Health Programs, Movember supports programs that provide vital services and resources to men, such as counselling, support groups, and mental health education.
How to take care of your mental health.
Share your feelings with friends, family, or a mental health professional.
Engage in activities you enjoy, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time in nature.
Use relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress.
Do not hesitate to seek professional help.
By participating in Movember or simply taking care of your mental health, you can make a difference in your own li