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Written by the MPA DEI Team

Every November, the UK and many other countries turn their attention to important issues related to men’s health and wellbeing. There are two key events, Movember and International Men’s Day (19th) that highlight important topics such as mental health, prostate cancer and toxic masculinity. These movements not only raise awareness but also encourage conversations about the challenges that men face whilst fostering a healthier and more inclusive society.

Movember
Movember originated in Australia in 2003 and has since become a global initiative known for its iconic moustache-growing challenge. The campaign encourages men to grow moustaches throughout the month to raise awareness for men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. In the UK, the impact of Movember has been significant. According to the Movember Foundation, a substantial portion of donations goes towards research, support networks and awareness campaigns related to the major causes affecting men’s health.

–  Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK. Over 40,000 cases are diagnosed each year. Movember has raised millions to support research focusing on early detection and better treatment options.

– Testicular Cancer, although it has a high survival rate, awareness about self-checks and early detection remains low. Movember aims to promote education to ensure men understand how to identify early warning signs.

–  Mental health and suicide prevention, a pressing issue for men, where suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 45. Movember funds initiatives to reduce stigma, provide support and encourage men to seek help before reaching crisis point.

By participating in Movember, whether growing a moustache or committing to the “Move for Movember” challenge, people from all walks of life can contribute to the broader conversation about men’s health.

International Men’s Day

While Movember focuses on men’s physical and mental health, International Men’s Day (IMD) focuses on the broader conversation to include societal and cultural factors that impact men’s lives. Whilst there is a global theme each year, in the UK the following themes are used each year:

• Making a positive difference to the wellbeing and lives of men and boys.
• Raising awareness and/or funds for charities supporting men and boys’ wellbeing.
• Promoting a positive conversation about men, manhood and masculinity.

A key focus is on reducing stigma around mental health issues for men, which ties closely to Movember’s mission and can work to provide a space where men can openly discuss their struggles. Making a positive contribution to communities whether mentoring, or inspiring young men and boys. It challenges the stereotypes around masculinity and showcases a diverse example of what it means to be a man in today’s world. It is additionally important for men to tackle and break down the stereotypes of aggression and emotional repression and instead, encourage empathy and emotional intelligence.

Why are Movember and IMD important?

Men are disproportionately affected by certain health and social issues. Statistics show that men are more likely to avoid visiting the doctors, less likely to discuss mental health struggles and sadly, face higher rates of suicide. Movember and IMD work to address these concerns by creating platforms for awareness and action.

How can you get involved?

• Grow a Mo – the simplest way to get involved in Movember!
• Move for Movember – for those who prefer physical activity.
• Join webinars or workshops such as Masculinity in the Workplace 2024 | International Men’s Day (UK)
• Start the conversation. Simply talking about men’s health and wellbeing can help raise awareness.

Movember and IMD are essential for driving progress in men’s health and well-being. Inspiring positive changes in how men approach physical and mental health can change the harmful stereotypes and provide better support systems. Whether it’s growing a ‘mo’, joining an event or simply discussing with colleagues or friends – everyone can take part in raising awareness for men’s health and well-being.

Resources

Welcome to the home of International Men’s Day in the UK
Movember – Changing the face of men’s health – Movember
Men’s Minds Matter | Men’s Mental Health & Suicide Charity
Lads Need Dads CIC
About Us – Boys Get Sad Too

If you would like to join our Gender+ or BeWell Employee Network group please contact:

Helen Choudhury
Head of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
[email protected]

Mandy Feighery
D & I Officer
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