Movember - Supporting Men's Mental Health
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November marks Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness about men's health issues, particularly mental health, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. Over the past 20 years, Movember has supported men’s health by funding over 1,320 projects globally, empowering men to lead healthier, longer lives.
Men are facing a health crisis. On average, men die 4.5 years earlier than women, often from preventable conditions. Alarmingly, one man dies by suicide every minute, with males accounting for 69% of all suicides. This statistic highlights the urgent need for conversations around mental health, especially in a society where men often feel they must navigate their struggles alone.
Movember encourages men to engage in open dialogue about their mental health. By fostering supportive environments, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and promote healthier coping mechanisms. This month, let’s commit to checking in on our friends, talking more openly about our feelings, and taking steps to prioritise our well-being.
A significant advancement this year, funded by Movember, is the launch of the Becoming A Man (BAM) programme in the UK. This trauma-informed counselling and mentoring initiative will support boys aged 12 to 16 in discussing their lives and developing the skills necessary for emotional well-being. The BAM program has already shown promising results in the US, including improved critical thinking, empathy, and perseverance among participants.
There are also several other resources available to support men's mental health, including Movember's Get Support Page, which provides reliable information and expert advice tailored to individual needs.
This Movember, let’s come together to support each other. Whether it's by growing a moustache, participating in local events, or simply reaching out to a friend, every action counts. Together, we can change the narrative around men’s health, ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.
Written October 2024
