With Movember taking place this November, it’s a chance to shine a light on men’s health, both physical and mental and to break the stigma that still surrounds these conversations. Movember began in 2003 in Australia when a small group of friends decided to bring back the moustache as a way to raise money and awareness for men’s health. Today, it has become a global movement, funding thousands of projects to support mental health initiatives, early cancer detection, and suicide prevention.

In the UK, three out of four suicides are by men, and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50. Men are also at higher risk of certain cancers, around one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, and testicular cancer is the most common cancer among younger men. Despite growing awareness around men’s health, many still feel pressure to appear strong and hide their struggles, whether that’s ignoring physical symptoms or bottling up emotions. This silent expectation can make it difficult to reach out for help, whether in the workplace, among friends, or at home.

Many of the challenges surrounding men’s mental health today include

• Social stigma: The belief that showing emotion or seeking help is a sign of weakness.

• Isolation: Men are statistically less likely to have strong social support networks.

• Workplace pressure: High expectations, job insecurity, and long hours can take a toll on wellbeing.

• Lack of open dialogue: Many men still don’t feel comfortable discussing their mental health, even with close friends or colleagues.

Supporting men’s mental health can be as simple as checking in with someone, listening without judgement, or creating space for openness at work. Small, consistent actions can make a huge difference in helping men feel seen, supported, and encouraged to speak up.

🚀We can all get involved by

• 🗣️Starting the conversation: Genuine check-ins can go a long way. Ask your friends, family, or colleagues how they’re really doing, and take the time to listen without judgment. Avoid trying to fix things straight away, often simply being heard can make someone feel less alone. This month, why not set the goal of reaching out to at least one person each week? It could be a quick message, or a coffee catch-up. Small gestures like these can open the door to meaningful conversations and remind the people around you that they’re not alone in whatever they’re facing.

• 🫂Creating a supportive workplace culture: For organisations, normalising conversations around men’s mental and physical health is essential. Creating an environment where it feels safe to speak up can make a real difference. Offering mental health awareness sessions, promoting available support services, and having visible wellbeing champions or mental health first aiders can help men and those around them to recognise the signs and seek help early. Flexibility also plays a key role, allowing time for therapy, exercise, or family commitments shows that men’s wellbeing is valued just as much as their performance.

• 📝Hosting awareness events: Use Movember as an opportunity to bring people together and raise awareness of men’s mental health. Organise lunch-and-learn sessions or informal coffee chats where colleagues can share experiences and learn how to better support one another. Invite guest speakers or mental health advocates to share their stories and advice. You could also host wellbeing workshops, charity challenges, or sponsored activities such as a group walk, cycle, or run to raise funds and awareness for men’s health issues. These initiatives not only spark important conversations but also help build a stronger sense of community and support in the workplace.

• 📖Sharing resources and stories: Openly and frequently sharing mental health helplines, internal wellbeing resources, and real stories from employees or public figures who’ve opened up about their mental health journeys helps break down stigma. When men see others being honest about their struggles, it helps normalise vulnerability, reinforces that it’s okay to talk, and encourages others to seek support when they need it.

Movember isn’t just about growing a moustache, it’s about growing awareness, empathy, and support. When we take the time to talk, to listen, and to look out for each other, we help create a world where no man feels he has to struggle alone. This November, let’s do our part, one conversation, one act of support, and one small change at a time.