It’s Movember, so “Mo Up” and take care of your mates

It has been sometime since I’ve written about Movember, so here is a reminder about the importance of Movember.

Whether you like the mo or hate it…November means Movember. November is a really important month of the year as it reminds us of the importance of men’s health and since 2003 the Movember Foundation has raised awareness of men’s health issues by committing to men living healthier, happier and longer lives.

Of particular concern is men’s mental health with the Movember Foundation looking to create a positive change in attitudes towards mental health as well as men’s health in general.

The Australian Movember Foundation is a charity that tackles prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention, and stands for:

1. Improving quality of life.
2. Preventing suicide in men.
3. Helping men take action.
4. Teaming up with great minds.
5. Raising funds during Movember.

Encouraging men to stay connected with friends and family is really important and I think this is what Movember is really all about. Man generally like doing things, and in doing things men are able to have those conversations with others – which is so important for mental health. Whether it’s growing a mo, playing sport, going out, having a beer, watching sport or whatever…these activities/doing things leads to a sense of connectedness and belonging.

However, sadly for some men, the reality is that they don’t have any close friends, and this sense of isolation can lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and suicide.

This year, over three million Australians will experience depression or anxiety or both and today, seven Australians will die by suicide; five of them will be men.

So what can you do?

If you’re a male – get connected and focus on spending time with your mates and family.

If you have a male partner – encourage him to connect or re-connect with his mates…if this is something that has been neglected.

If you’re concerned about someone – reach out and ask if they’re ok R U OK?

It’s better to put your hand up if you need help, or lend a hand if someone is struggling, than not to say anything at all because you’re not sure what to say. Depression and anxiety won’t get better without help – and if left undiagnosed and untreated, these conditions can become disabling.

If you have ongoing concerns about your own mental health or someone you know, it may be worthwhile to get some professional support from a psychologist. At Attuned we offer both supportive counselling as well as psychotherapy… so contact us and start the conversation.

John Pertl
Psychologist

The following numbers provide 24 hour crisis support:

Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
Lifeline 131 114