Every November, Men across the globe set down their razor for four week and let their facial hair grow free in the name of men’s health. What has become known as “Movember”, this scruff acts as a rallying symbol, a walking billboard to draw attention to promote numerous men’s health issues.
The Movember Foundation was started in Melbourne, Australia in 2003 by a group of 30 men. The goal of this organization is to “change the face of men’s health”, and they are doing just that. Today it has grown to include a group of more than 4 million participants in 21 countries around the world. To date it has raised more than $559 million for more than 800 different men’s health programs. Like the pink ribbons for breast cancer, moustaches have become the image of Men’s health, with numerous celebrities, athletes and political figures participating in the movement.
The organization has done amazing work for Men’s health issues by raising money and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer. But where it really has excelled is by shining light on a myriad of other health issues affecting men.
Mental health illnesses like depression and anxiety are rarely discussed, especially amongst men. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, every year tens of millions of men and women are affected by mental health disorders, and only about half of those affected receive treatment—with men being disproportionately affected. There’s a stigma when it comes to men suffering from mental health illnesses, to suck it up and stick it out. But this mentality often ignores the underlying problems of this issue, and does very little to help those affected. The Movember Foundation, through No Shave November, is committed to changing this.
Individuals looking to participate can sign up on their Movember website, or can participate on their own. By signing up on the website, participants gain access to fundraising tools and educational information. Participants shave on November 1st and then let their facial hair grow until the end of the month. The purpose of the mustache/beard/scruff is to act as a talking point to pass on information regarding men’s health.
This movement isn’t exclusive to men, and Movember encourages women to join their “Mo Bros” by becoming “Mo Sistas”, helping pass on information and raise funds in the name of men’s health.
November is a great time to remember the men in our lives, and help them stay on top of their health. What are you doing to promote men’s health? Let us know below.
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