Men’s Mental Health and the Impact of Movember

‍The topic of men’s mental health has never been more important. As we approach Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health issues, and International Men's Day, the conversation around mental well-being is at the forefront. Justin "J.C." Coughlan, co-founder of the Movember Foundation, recently shared his insights on the movement’s origins and its focus on tackling men’s mental health, particularly in light of the ongoing global mental health crisis.

A Spotlight on Men’s Mental Health

Movember's success story began with a simple idea: to bring back the moustache and use it to spark conversations about men’s health. What started with 30 men in a pub in Australia has since grown into the world’s largest men’s health movement, raising over $1.2 billion AUD. The moustache, a symbol of masculinity, became a 'walking, talking billboard' for men’s health, encouraging dialogue around challenging topics like mental health. This unique approach has not only raised significant funds but also inspired hope and change, showing that even the smallest ideas can make a big difference.

J.C. explained that men often prefer to communicate “shoulder to shoulder” rather than face to face, making social environments like pubs or sporting events ideal for opening up these conversations. Movember has worked to create these spaces where men can talk openly without feeling pressured. The movement has also brought attention to the alarming statistics: 77% of suicides are men, with one man taking his life every minute of every day. These figures drive Movember’s mission to create a world where men feel comfortable seeking help.

The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health

The global pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues worldwide. Depression rates have increased by 25%, with an additional 53 million people affected, while anxiety has surged by 76 million. J.C. highlighted the profound impact the pandemic has had on young people, particularly the 1.6 billion children who were out of school at the height of the crisis. In the UK, one-third of young people now meet the criteria for depression, and half of them have either known someone who has taken their own life or attempted to do so. These statistics are a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues early and proactively.

Understanding the Triggers of Men’s Mental Health

J.C. outlined four key triggers that significantly affect men’s mental health, particularly for middle-aged men:

1. Loss of a job or business
2. Relationship breakdowns
3. The birth of a child
4. The death of a loved one

These life events, compounded by the isolation and stress of the pandemic, have intensified the mental health crisis among men. Understanding these triggers is critical for offering support and finding solutions that address the root causes of the problem.

Social Scaffolding: Building Support Systems for Men

One of Movember’s primary strategies for addressing men’s mental health is 'social scaffolding.' This concept revolves around building strong social networks to support men during tough times. J.C. emphasised the importance of staying connected with friends and ensuring that men have access to these networks when they feel isolated. This emphasis on social connections not only provides a sense of belonging but also assures men that they are not alone in their struggles.

To help men navigate their mental health struggles, Movember has developed digital tools like Mo Conversations. Based on the ALEC model (Ask, Listen, Encourage, Check-in), this tool guides users on how to have meaningful conversations about mental health. Another resource, Family Man, is designed to help fathers feel less isolated and offers tips on managing the challenges of parenthood. These tools are part of Movember’s efforts to work "upstream" and address mental health issues before they reach a crisis point.

» READ MORE: Bringing the conversation about mental health to the forefront with insights from Gamal Turawa & John Moe's PepTalks for Mental Health Awareness Week.

Male Vulnerability and Honest Conversations

J.C. addressed the often-taboo subject of male vulnerability. For years, men have been conditioned to suppress their emotions and avoid appearing weak, which has made it difficult for them to open up about their mental health struggles. However, J.C. believes that this narrative is changing, albeit slowly. More and more men are beginning to recognise that admitting when they’re not okay is okay.

One of the toughest but most necessary actions J.C. has learned is to approach difficult conversations head-on. He now advocates for directly asking someone if they’re contemplating suicide if they seem to be in crisis. While it’s a hard question to ask, it can save lives. The Mo Conversations tool has been instrumental in helping people navigate these difficult discussions, providing guidance on what to say and, more importantly, what not to say. Mental health speakers can also train your team and give them advice on what to say.

Resources and Support for Those Struggling

For those struggling and who don’t know where to turn, J.C. recommends contacting organisations that offer peer support and expert advice. While Movember focuses on preventative measures, he encourages people to contact organisations like Mind or Samaritans in the UK for immediate help. These organisations provide confidential helplines where individuals can talk to trained professionals who can guide them through their feelings.

Inspiration and the Power of Everyday Acts

J.C. finds inspiration in ordinary people's everyday acts of bravery and resilience. Whether it’s someone climbing a mountain for a Movember fundraiser or sharing their mental health journey, these stories remind him of the power of individual action. Movember’s success isn’t just about raising funds; it’s about the stories and lives that are changed along the way.

Movember’s Goals and Future Impact

Reflecting on Movember’s growth, J.C. shared his vision for the future. The movement, which began as a grassroots effort, has now raised over a billion dollars and continues to expand its reach globally. However, for J.C., the true measure of success lies not in the funds raised but in Movember's impact on people’s lives.

Movember’s Innovation Challenges have addressed critical mental health issues in various communities. In one project, Movember worked with Inuit communities in Northern Canada, where the suicide rate among youth was alarmingly high. By reconnecting young people with traditional skills like hunting and fishing, Movember helped foster a sense of purpose and belonging. Since the program's implementation, no lives have been lost to suicide in that community.

Movember is also working on initiatives that target youth suicide prevention, using sports and social scaffolding to help young people build resilience. These efforts have already shown incredible results, with 39% of participants in one program reporting that they no longer think about suicide. This impact on youth suicide prevention not only gives hope for the future but also encourages further support for such initiatives.

» READ MORE: Mental Health Speakers for Workplace Wellbeing

The Legacy of Movember

As we approach another Movember milestone, J.C. is focused on building a lasting legacy that will continue to impact future generations. He aims to create a continuum of support that follows individuals from childhood through adulthood, ensuring they have the tools and networks they need to navigate life’s challenges.

Whether through sports programs, peer support networks, or innovative mental health initiatives, Movember is working to create a world where mental health support is available at every stage of life. J.C. knows that everyone will face difficult times, but with the right support, these moments don’t have to become crises.

It’s Okay Not to Be Okay

J.C.’s final message is simple but powerful: it’s okay not to be OK. Whether you’re struggling or know someone who is, it’s essential to seek help and check in with others. By breaking down the stigmas surrounding mental health and building stronger social networks, we can create a world where it’s easier to talk about these issues and find support when it’s needed most.

As Movember continues to grow and evolve, it’s a time to strengthen men’s mental health too, helping to change lives one conversation and one moustache at a time.

💡 Raise awareness for men's mental health: book a keynote speaker for international men’s day in November. Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com or send us a message via the chat. You can also call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US). Remember, it’s always a good time to get a PepTalk!