By: The GECU Cares Team
Many of us have a father, brother, uncle, friend, spouse, partner, or male figure who plays a significant role in our lives. These individuals may have supported us through a difficult time or offered a helping hand when we needed it most. However, these same men may fail to make their own health a priority; statistics indicate 1 in 10 men will suffer with mental health symptoms1 and 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lifetime.2 When it comes to their health, too many men don’t talk about it or take action. However, advocacy can drive change, leading to more positive outcomes for men. In fact, a movement began in Australia in 2003 by a group of men promoting men’s health. Since then, the movement, also known as “No Shave November” or Movember, has funded over 1,320 men’s health projects and sought to increase awareness regarding men’s health issues worldwide.3 Read on to learn more about this cause, ways to support it, and available resources for you and all the men in your life.
What is Movember?
Movember is the only global, charitable organization focused solely on men’s health. The charity raises funds and delivers breakthrough research focused on men’s mental and physical health including prostate and testicular cancer. In fact, November is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The goal of “No Shave November” is to change the face of men’s health by encouraging men to get actively involved; when cancer is detected and diagnosed early followed by effective treatments, lives are saved and preventable deaths reduced. Throughout Movember, men are challenged to grow facial hair—beards, goatees, or moustaches; women are encouraged to increase their physical activity. No matter what your level of commitment is to this movement, whether you grow a moustache, schedule an important screening, or support a men’s health campaign, No Shave November often generates powerful and life-changing conversations.
Movember is also dedicated to raising prostate and testicular cancer awareness. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men in the United States.4 Furthermore, it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men.5 Since there aren’t typically early symptoms with prostate cancer, it may go undetected as it progresses. Although testicular cancer is a bit rarer, it remains the most common cancer among males aged 15-35.2 Early detection is critical, often contributing to successful outcomes and increasing the chances of long-term survival. Cancer screenings allow for early detection and annual health exams (with a Primary Care Physician) are instrumental in maintaining overall health. In addition, men are encouraged to know their family history of cancer and adopt a healthier lifestyle during No Shave November.
Destigmatizing men’s mental health is another focus in Movember. While some men may find it uncomfortable to discuss their feelings and emotions, conversation starters can help us navigate tough conversations with the men in our lives. One specific strategy, known as Reach out with ALEC, uses the simple, four step model shown below.
- Ask. Start by asking how he’s feeling. It’s worth mentioning any changes you’ve noticed such as spending more time alone, not responding to texts or calls, or not engaging in social events.
- Listen. Give your full attention. Let him know you’re hearing what he is saying and you’re not judging. It is not your role to diagnose problems or offer solutions; just asking questions lets him know you’re listening.
- Encourage Action. Help him focus on simple things that might improve how he feels. Is he getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating well? Has something helped him in the past that may work again now?
- Check in. Suggest catching up–in person if you can. If you can’t manage a meet-up, take time for a call or send a text. This shows you care; plus, you will get a sense if he is feeling any better.
When we engage in mental health conversations and listen carefully, we can create opportunities for others to seek professional help, if needed. Everyone experiences mental health issues at some point in their lives; it’s vital not to underestimate the importance of being there for someone.
Physical exercise is a final and recent addition to the No Shave November movement; you can move for mental health. Sadly, every hour 60 men take their own lives globally.6 The Order of Mo is a moment to think about the men lost to suicide who should still be in this world today—and then to act. To participate, individuals pledge to run or walk 60 miles. The distance can be covered at one time or throughout November. Hit it fast or take it slow. Run solo or join a team. Pound the pavement. Or make a date with the treadmill. You decide how to move; you can also challenge others, make it social, and raise funds. This is an excellent opportunity to reflect, have conversations focused on men’s mental health, and to let others know you’re getting active in support of Movember.
Whether it’s raising awareness, offering support to a man in our lives, destigmatizing men’s mental health, fundraising, or growing a moustache during No Shave November, you stand in solidarity for this cause. We encourage you to join the movement and rally around the men in your life. Together, we can change the face of men’s health.