💙🩵 November Movember - Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month 💙🩵
- Sally Panks
- Nov 2
- 2 min read
Movember: Shining a Light on Men’s Mental Health and Wellbeing
As the clocks go back and the nights grow longer, November takes on a new meaning - or should we say Movember. The month formerly known as November has become a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for men’s health. Across the UK and beyond, brave and selfless men put down their razors and grow a moustache, while women, families, and communities rally behind them.
But behind the fun and facial hair lies a serious mission: tackling some of the biggest health issues faced by men - prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.
Why Men’s Mental Health Matters
Men’s mental health remains one of the most pressing, yet often overlooked, public health issues of our time. In the UK:
Three out of four suicides are by men.
Men aged 40–49 have the highest suicide rates.
Many men still feel unable to speak openly about their mental health or to seek help when they’re struggling.
Movember isn’t just about the moustache, it’s about starting conversations, breaking stigma, and encouraging men to open up before reaching crisis point.
Support Networks Making a Difference in the UK
Fortunately, a growing number of organisations and community groups are working tirelessly to change the culture around men’s mental health.
Andy’s Man Club
A nationwide network of free, peer-to-peer talking groups for men. Meeting every Monday evening (except bank holidays), Andy’s Man Club provides a safe, non-judgemental space where men can talk openly about what’s going on in their lives. Their simple motto: “It’s OK to talk.”
Men’s Sheds Association
Men’s Sheds are community workshops found all across the UK where men can come together to connect, create, and contribute. Whether it’s woodworking, repairing, or simply having a brew and a chat, Men’s Sheds tackle isolation and loneliness by offering a sense of purpose and friendship.
8:56 Foundation
Born from lived experience, the 8:56 Foundation promotes mental health awareness and suicide prevention through community sports events, talks, and initiatives. Their mission is a poignant reminder of the importance of reaching out.
How You Can Get Involved This Movember
Grow a Mo: Whether it’s a handlebar, horseshoe, or something in between - wear your moustache proudly and spark conversations.
Move for Movember: Run or walk 60 km throughout November - one kilometre for each man lost to suicide every minute, every hour, around the world.
Host a Mo-ment: Get friends, family, or colleagues together for a fundraiser or awareness event.
Start the conversation: Ask the men in your life how they’re doing - and really listen.
A Final Word
Movember is more than a fundraising campaign - it’s a movement for change. By encouraging open conversations, supporting one another, and backing incredible UK organisations like Andy’s Man Club, Men’s Sheds, and the 8:56 Foundation, we can help men live happier, healthier, and longer lives.
So this November, let’s grow, move, and talk - for ourselves, for our mates, and for men everywhere.
Because together, we can change the face of men’s health.
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